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COLD AND WARM BATHING;
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AND
DESCRIPTIVE NOTICES OF WATERING
PLACES IN BRITAIN.
ihi
By JAMES MILLAR, M.D.
rELLOW OF THE ROYAL COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS, AND
LECTURER ON NATURAL HISTORY A
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This is the purest ekercis^Sbf health, .
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the bod/? piijtfty,~the mind
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EDINBURGH :
PRINTED FOR W. & C. TAIT, PRINCE’S STREET,
AND LONGMAN, HURST, REES, ORME, & BROWN,
LONDON.
feu.
an
Vj
1821.
I HlSTOMC*L
\ ;lE»tCAL j
Edinburgh,
Printed by James Ballantyne and Co.
PREFACE.
The very general practice of bath-
ing furnishes ample proof that it must
be followed with some advantage. F or
although fashion and example, by their
powerful influence, might at first in-
troduce and give it currency, yet they
could not insure its continuance and
increase. But however useful the prac-
tice, those who have directed their at-
tention to it, cannot fail to have ob-
served that its beneficial effects have
been often greatly limited, and, in
some cases, directly counteracted, by
improper or injudicious management.
IV
PREFACE.
In the following Treatise, it has
been the object of the Author to bring
within a narrow compass the most use-
ful rules and directions for regulating
the practice of cold and warm bath-
ing ; and, keeping this object in view,
he hopes he has succeeded in com-
pressing all the material information
on the subject, that is detailed in
larger volumes, or scattered in differ-
ent works.
On some points the Author has
ventured to express a very different
opinion from what is entertained by
writers on bathing; but he is confident
that he has asserted nothing that ex-
perience and observation will not fully
confirm.
The Descriptive Notices of Water-
ing Places throughout the kingdom,
although they are necessarily very
I
PREFACE. V
brief, may enable those who have the
means in their power, to make a pro-
per selection, by considering the sea-
son of the year, the general character
of the place, and the nature of the mi-
neral water.
CONTENTS.
Introduction. Bathing, a general practice in all
ages ; among the Greeks and Romans, p. 1. Very
prevalent in this country ; is of great utility, 4.
PART I.— OF COLD AND WARM BATHING.
Chap. I. Of Cold Bathing. In what its utility con-
sists, 5. Time of using the cold bath, 5. Best
time of the tide for sea bathing, 6. Mid-day the
proper time for delicate persons, 8. Cold bathing
to be avoided in the evening, 11. Condition of
the body previous to cold bathing considered, 12.
When the heat of the body is greatest, 14. Dr
Currie’s opinion, 15. Popular opinion erroneous,
1 8. Remarkable transitions from heat to cold
among the Romans ; among the peasants of Fin-
land, 1 9- Mode of using the cold bath ; what is
to be done previous to bathing, 21. Time of re-
maining in the water, 24. Frequent immersion
improper, 26. Erroneous opinion of immersing
the head, 28. Management after bathing, 30.
Advantages of a sheltered situation for sea bath-
Vlll
CONTENTS.
ing, 32. Advantages of cold bathing within doors,
33. Shower bath, 34. Bathing tub, 35. Ba-
thing children, 37- Rules for using the cold bath,
39- Diseases in which cold bathing is useful, 40.
Fever, 41 — 48. Intermittent fevers, 48. Nervous
diseases ; palpitation of the heart ; hypochondria-
sis ; St Vitus’s dance, 49. Epilepsy and Convul-
sions ; hysterical affections, 50. Chincough ; ner-
vous headache ; rheumatism, 51. Gout; consti-
pation of bowels, 52. Bilious complaints, 53.
Sore throat, 54 — 56. Inflammation of eyes ; scro-
phula, 57. Rickets ; female complaints, 58. De-
bility of constitution from the use of medicine, 60.
Chap. II. Of Warm Bathing, 61. A luxury of
the Greeks and Romans ; baths of Dioclesian and
Caracalla, ib. Vapour bath of the Mexicans ; of
the peasants of Finland and some Eastern nations,
62. Warm bath not merely a luxury, ib. Effects
of the warm bath on the body, 63. Increase of
heat, 64. Respiration affected, 65. Experiments
on secretion from the skin, 66. No absorption by
the skin, 67- Thirst alleviated by immersing the
body in water, 68. Refreshing effects of the warm
bath explained, 69. Effects debilitating when
used too hot, 70. Proper degree of temperature,
71. Danger of too high a temperature, 72 — 74.
Proper time for using the warm bath, 7 6, 77- No
danger from cold after warm bathing, 77. Count
Rumford’s account of the time and manner of his
using the warm bath, 77 — 81. Dr Currie’s opi-
nion of the temperature of the warm bath, 81 — 85.
Topical warm bath, 86. Topical vapour bath.
CONTENTS.
IX
87. Rules for warm bathing, 88. Complaints in
which warm bathing is useful, 89- In the early
periods of life, 90. On the approach of old age,
91. Dr Darwin’s opinion of warm bathing in this
view ; the warm bath employed by Dr Franklin,
pi — 93. Useful as a purifier of the skin ; in hectic
fever, 93, 94. Chronic weakness ; spasmodic
cough ; and in convulsions from eruptive diseases;
colic pains, 95. Gravelly disorders, 96. Rheu-
matism ; fistulous ulcerations, and piles, 97- Ob-
structions; swelling of the extremities ; croup, 98.
Inflammation of the throat, 99- Scrophula, 100.
Inflammation of the eyes; ear-ache, 101. Tooth-
ache; pectoral complaints, 102. Cramp of sto-
mach; sprains, 103. Suspended animation, 104.
Successful case, 105 — 108.
PART II.— DESCRIPTIVE NOTICES OF WATER-
ING PLACES IN DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE
KINGDOM, 109.
Introduction — Selection of a place for sea-bath-
ing— Preparation for sea-bathing unnecessary —
Choice of mineral waters — Different classes — Er-
roneous practice in the use of mineral waters,
109—115.
Peterhead — Situation — Accommodation — Nature
of mineral spring — In what diseases useful, 116
—118.
Pitkaithly — Scenery of the Place — Accommoda-
tion— Waters — Effects of, 118—120.
Dunblane — Situation and scenery — Mineral springs
— Similar to Pitkaithly, 120 — 123.
X
CONTEXTS.
Edinburgh— Well situated for sea-bathing— Porto-
bello and Seafield cold and warm baths — Places
to the eastward — Mineral waters— St Bernard’s
well, and chalybeate at Bonnington, 123 — 125.
Paisley, Candken Well — Discovery and situation
of the spring — Nature of the water — In what dis-
eases useful — Seedhill, .a sulphureous spring at
Paisley — Beneficial effects, 125 — 129.
Firth of Clyde — Fine air and scenery — Helens-
burgh— Gourock — Auldkirk — Largs— Ardrossan
— T roon — Ayr, 1 30 — 137.
Moffat — Situation — Chalybeate and sulphureous
springs — Effects of waterj 137 — 140.
Windgate Spa — Situation — Nature of the water —
A powerful chalybeate, 114 — 142.
Harrogate — Situation — Fine scenery — Four sul-
phureous springs — Nature of water — Preparation
for drinking scarcely necessary — Water useful in
cutaneous eruptions — Chalybeate springs — Hint
for alternate use of sulphureous and chalybeate
waters, 143 — 143.
Scarborough — Situation — Has the advantage of
sea-bathing and mineral water — Two springs —
One a simple chalybeate — The other chalybeate
and saline — General effects, 148 — 150.
Holywell — Situation — Formerly much frequented
— Very copious spring — Water pure, 150 — 151.
Matlock — Situation — Spring thermal, or above
the average temperature of atmosphere — Water
slightly impregnated — Tepid baths, 151 — 158.
Buxton — Situation — Remarkable scenery — Magni-
ficent buildings — Hot spring — Nature of ingre-
CONTENTS.
XI
clients — Precautions in drinking — Baths on a grand
scale — Precautions in using tepid bath, 153 — 158.
Leamington Priors — Situation — Scenery, beauti-
ful and interesting — Waters sulphureous and sa-
line— Baths elegantly fitted up, 158 — 161.
Malvern — Situation — retired — -Air salubrious—
Water pure — Used externally — Sensible effects ta-
ken internally, 162 — 164.
Cheltenham — Situation — Surrounding scenery rich
and beautiful — Elegant accommodations — Waters
saline — Strongly impregnated with common salt
— Cheltenham salts — natural and artificial — Ef-
fects of the water — Chalybeate water, 164 — 168.
Bath — Situation — Names from mineral springs —
Favourite residence of the Romans — Springs —
Nature of the water — Temperature — Effects —
Spacious baths — Precautions in bathing — Dry-
pumping, 168 — 176.
Bristol — Situation — Fine scenery of the Avon —
Spring very copious — Nature of the water — Ef-
fects— Directions for its use — Celebrated in ge-
neral debility induced in warm climates — and in
cure of consumption, 1 76 — 180.
Tunbridge — -Situation — Salubrious air Pictu-
resque scenery, and excellent accommodation —
Trade — Manufacture of Toys — Visited by the
queen of Charles I. — Water chalybeate — Ingre-
dients— Not strongly impregnated — Varies in dif-
ferent seasons — Effects of water— How admini-
stered, 180—186.
Brighton — Sheltered situation— Remarkable change
— Favourite residence of the king — Elegant ac-
Xll
CONTENTS.
commodation for comfort and amusement — Mi-
neral water chalybeate — A copious spring — Na-
ture of and ingredients — A tonic remedy, 186 —
189-
Isle of Wight — Fine climate — Favourable retire-
ment for sea-bathing — Beautiful scenery — Mine-
ral spring — A powerful chalybeate — Strongest
known in Britain — Salutary effects in diseases of
the troops — Assisted by other tonic remedies,
189—192.
COLD AND WARM BATHING.
INTRODUCTION.
The practice of bathing, as a remedy in
disease, or as a luxury, seems to have pre-
vailed in all ages. Among ruder nations,
and in the warmer regions of the earth, the
cold bath has been more generally employ-
ed ; but in more temperate climates, and in
the progress of refinement and luxury, a fee-
ble and enervated people, having experien-
ced its grateful and invigorating effects, in-
dulge more freely in warm bathing. Thus
it appears, that in later times, the use
of the warm bath became a principal grati-
fication among the Greeks and Romans ;
A
2
INTRODUCTION,
and hence it is, that the magnificent ruins,
which have resisted the Waste of ages, and
which mark the grandeur and extent of the
establishments which were erected among the
latter people, chiefly by rulers who sought
popular applause, afford a striking testimo-
ny how much this luxury prevailed in the
degenerate times of the Republic.
Bathing, with a view probably to its de-
tersive effects, or as it contributes, by pro-
moting cleanliness, to the health of the bo-
dy, has been recommended in some coun-
tries by legislators and founders of peculiar
systems of faith, and has thus assumed some-
thing of the form of a religious ceremony ;
and hence its observance at stated times has
obtained a place in the code of duties pre-
scribed to some of the eastern nations.
The very general practice of bathing
which prevails among all ranks of the inha-
bitants of this country, shows that the be-
nefits which are derived from it are held in
no small degree of estimation. The young
and the old, the rich and the poor, the ex-
hausted and the feeble, retire annually from
the fatigues and business of the crowded ci-
INTRODUCTION.
3
ty, to seek new vigour and refreshment on
the shores, and at the watering places of the
kingdom. This practice, which every return-
ing season sees on the increase, can scarcely
be supposed, as has been sometimes alleged,
to be merely an amusement, or affording on-
ly a variety of scene and a change of socie-
ty : its more general prevalence and conti-
nuance are certain proofs of some real bene-
fits which attend it, otherwise the tide of
fashion would ere now have turned into
some other channel, and the practice itself
would have been long ago neglected and
disused.
Bathing, then, from the practice having
prevailed in all ages, and from its use being
so generally resorted to in this kingdom,
must assuredly be of extensive utility. It
must therefore be an important investiga-
tion to ascertain what are the real benefits
to be expected from the practice of bathing ;
and to know what rides should he observed
to have the full advantage of these benefits.
These topics are the objects of inquiry in the
following observations, which may be con-
veniently divided into two parts ; in the
4
INTRODUCTION.
first of which, cold and warm bathing will
be treated of; and, in the second, a few
historical notices of the principal watering-
places of the kingdom will be introduced,
pointing out the character of the situation,
the nature of the mineral water, and some
of the diseases in which it may be expected
to prove beneficial.
zi< \ y » v
B r A ft '
PART I.
OF COLD AND WARM BATHING.
To point out the benefits to be derived
from bathing, and to give such directions
as seem best calculated to insure these be-
nefits, it may be necessary to treat, first, of
Cold Bathing, and, secondly, of Warm Ba-
thing, in separate chapters.
CHAP. I.
OF COLD BATHING.
The external application of cold water
to the body, or cold bathing, were it the
purpose of this treatise to enter deeply into
the investigation, might be considered in
two points of view ; either with regard to
the detersive properties of the water, in re-
6
OF COLD BATHING.
moving from the surface of the body the
impurities from the secreted matters, which,
if allowed to remain on the skin, might be
prejudicial to its proper action, and to the
health of the system ; or with regard to the
effects of cold from the temporary diminu-
tion of the heat of the body, uniformly ex-
posed by immersion to a colder medium. It
is not improbable that the utility of cold
bathing may consist in producing both these
beneficial effects. But the present observa-
tions are too limited to admit of the discri-
mination of these advantages being pursued.
Some estimate might be formed of the
value of cold bathing in contributing to the
health and comfort of the body, if it be con-
sidered how much these beneficial ends are
attained by a partial application of cold
water in bathing or washing the face, hands,
or feet ; and how greatly the whole frame is
refreshed and invigorated even by this treat-
ment of the extremities. The daily and uni-
versal practice of this partial system of ba-
thing, is a sufficient proof of the benefits de-
rived from it.
But, avoiding all minuteness of investi-
KfcVJt
OF COLD BATHING.
7
gation, and as much as possible every thing
like physiological discussion, the remarks
"which follow will be limited to points of
practical utility, and will be employed in
laying down directions for the beneficial
use of the cold bath. With this in view,
what is briefly to be offered may be arran-
ged under the four following heads : 1. The
proper time for bathing ; 2. The state of
the body when bathing should be employ-
ed ; 3. The mode of bathing ; and, 4. The
diseases in which bathing may be useful.
Sect. I. — Time of using the Cold Bath.
Of those who have recommended cold
bathing, some propose that it should be em-
ployed early in the morning, while others
are strenuous advocates for delaying it till
after mid-day. It may be observed, in ge-
neral, that the proper time for bathing must
depend on many circumstances, all of which
ought to be fully considered before any pre-
cise rule can be given on this point. In sea-
bathing, in many cases, the time is unavoid-
8
TIME OF USING
ably in a great measure regulated by the
state of the tide ; but in other situations,
and where the opportunity of artificial baths
may be had, the time which shall be deem-
ed most suitable may be easily determined.
In different states of the tide, experience
has shewn that the temperature of sea- wa-
ter considerably varies. When it is high
water about two or three o’clock in the af-
ternoon, it has been found that the tem-
perature of the water is ten or twelve de-
grees higher than what is indicated by the
thermometer at the time of low water, about
eight o’clock in the morning of the same
day.
The temperature of the sea admits only
of variation in the time of calm weather.
The agitation of the waters in a storm di-
minishes greatly the general temperature of
the sea ; for then the deeper water, which
previously remained undisturbed, and at a
distance from the influence of the sun, is
mixed with that at the surface ; and thus a
uniformity of temperature is produced. But
during the warm season of the year, and on
a sandy beach, this variation of temperature
THE COLD BATH.
9
is quite perceptible ; for it is found that
sand not only absorbs, but also gives out
heat with more facility than a gravelly or
rocky bottom.
To the strong and healthy, it is of no
great import to observe precautions with re-
gard to the time of bathing, in the view of
enjoying a few degrees higher temperature
of the water ; but it is otherwise with those
who expect the vigour of an enfeebled con-
stitution to be renewed by the use of the
cold bath. To them, therefore, it must be
a piece of essential information to be told,
that the temperature of a flowing tide about
mid-day, or within an hour or two after-
wards, is not less than ten or twelve degrees
higher than at an earlier hour in the morn-
ing.
Early bathing is recommended by some,
on the supposition that the body being ex-
posed to a cold medium, while the stomach
is loaded with a full meal, disturbs and re-
tards the process of digestion, which requires
the heat of the body to be kept up to the
same uniform degree. But although it seems
improper, and perhaps in some cases might
10
TIME OF USING
be attended with hurtful consequences, to
immerse the body, with a full stomach, in
water far below its own temperature, this
can never be urged in support of the prac-
tice of bathing immediately on leaving bed,
or at an early hour in the morning. Persons
of a feeble constitution, who bathe in the
open sea, will do well to consider, not only
the difference of temperature of the sea be-
tween the morning and mid-day, in the par-
ticular circumstances alluded to above, but
also the difference of temperature of the air
at these different periods, and thus regulate
the time accordingly.
It may be observed, in general, that as
the air and the water are lower in temper-
ature in the morning than they are at
noon, and as the body itself, from having
had no exercise, and from the want of food,
has not acquired the proper degree of heat,
and may not be in that condition which will
be afterwards pointed out, early bathing
should be cautiously practised. This obser-
vation, however, is inapplicable to the use
of the artificial cold bath at an early hour ;
for there the temperature both of the air
THE COLD BATH.
11
and water is nearly the same at all hours of
the day.
Bathing in cold water, at an early hour
in the morning, should he carefully avoided
by those who have been previously subject-
ed to severe fatigue, while the body is yet
>in an exhausted or debilitated state ; and
it should be equally avoided by those who
have indulged in any excess or intemper-
ance, and before these effects have gone off
If the cold bath is to be employed in such
cases, mid-day, when the air and water have
reached their highest temperature, will be
the most proper time for using it. Here it
may be added, that the practice of return-
ing to bed, after bathing in the morning, is
hurtful. This is not unusual with children :
but profuse perspiration is the natural con-
sequence ; the debilitating effects of which,
more than counteract the invigorating ef-
fects of the cold bath.
The use of the cold bath in the evening,
when the body has been exposed to exertion
during the day, and is exhausted by fatigue,
especially by those who have been in the
habit of living generously and full, will, in
12
CONDITION OF THE BODY
general, be found to be prejudicial. If the
healthy and the vigorous enjoy, after the
cold bath in the evening, undisturbed repose
during the night, the use of it may be con-
tinued ; but if copious perspiration in the
night shall be the consequence of evening
bathing, the practice ought to be relinquish-
ed.
Sect. 2. — Previous Condition of the Podij
proper for Cold Bathing .
The use of the cold bath has been in
some cases followed with mueh benefit ;
while in similar, or in the same cases, and
apparently in the same circumstances, it has
at other times failed of producing any salu-
tary effects; or rather, on the contrary, these
effects have been injurious. One thing, by
which this difference may be accounted for,
has probably been overlooked. This is the
previous state of the body with regard to
temperature and exertion. If the body have
been exposed to severe exercise, and if this
be followed by lassitude, debility, and re-
FOR COLD BATHING.
18
duced temperature, immersion in cold water
will most assuredly produce very different
effects from what may be expected from it
when the body is in the full vigour of health,
aud its natural heat is undiminished. It
need scarcely be added, that the conse-
quences of inattention to the previous con-
dition of the body, will be still more hurt-
ful in proportion to the debility and delicacy
of the constitution. From all this, therefore,
it follows, that the state of the body before
the use of the cold bath, ought to be regard-
ed as of the most essential importance ; and
the more so, as a practice in cold bathing,
the very reverse of what is now to be recom-
mended, and founded on erroneous opinions
of the nature of the animal economy, is far
from being uncommon.
Excepting by those whose professional
pursuits require attention to the phenome-
na of animal life, or by those who are led
by curiosity to study the same subject, it
would scarcely be suspected that the varia-
tions of temperature of the human body, in
the full vigour of health, and in the violence
of fever ; in the time of the most active ex-
14
CONDITION OF THE BODY
ertions, or debilitated with fatigue and lan-
guor, are limited to a very few degrees. But
although these extremes, as they are indi-
cated by the thermometer, are not far dis-
tant, yet the sensations which prevail when
the temperature of the body is raised to the
one, or depressed to the other, are very dif-
ferent. Now, it is when the heat of the
body is at its lowest temperature that cold
bathing should be avoided; for when the bo-
dy is in this state, whether it proceed from
exposure to cold, from exertion and fatigue,
or any other debilitating cause, its effects,
instead of being salutary, will most certain-
ly be injurious ; nay, it has sometimes hap-
pened that this necessary and prudent pre-
caution being neglected, the consequences
have been fatal.
It may be adopted as a general rule, that
the condition of the body proper for immer-
sion in the cold bath, is that in which, after
being for some time in a warm place, or af-
ter moderate exercise, the temperature is in
the highest extreme. And, indeed, although
the body be in some degree of perspiration,
immediately previous to bathing, so far from
FOR COLD BATHING.
15
any danger being apprehended, this state of
the body may be regarded as the fittest for
enjoying the salutary effects expected from
bathing. It is not, however, to be under-
stood, that immersion in cold water is here
recommended when the body is in a profuse
sweat. In some cases, even in this state of
the body, the good effects of the cold bath
might follow ; yet as such a practice is not
altogether without hazard, it is safer to
avoid it entirely, lest the debility and lan-
guor which usually succeed should be in-
duced before immersion, and thus all the
injurious consequences of exposing the body
to cold in this enfeebled state should be pro-
duced.
“ In the earlier stages of exercise,” says
Dr Currie, “ before perspiration has dissi-
pated the heat, and fatigue debilitated the
living power, nothing is more safe, accord-
ing to my experience, than the cold bath.
This is so true, that I have for some years
constantly directed infirm persons to use
such a degree of exercise, before immersion,
as may produce some increased action of the
vascular system, with some increase of heat ;
16
CONDITION OF THE BODY
and thus secure a force of re-action, under
the shock, which otherwise might not al-
ways take place. The popular opinion, that
it is safest to go perfectly cool into the water,
is founded on erroneous notions, and is some-
times productive of injurious consequences.
Thus, persons heated, and beginning to
sweat, often think it necessary to wait on
the edge of the bath until they are perfect-
ly cooled, and then, plunging into the wa-
ter, feel a sudden chilliness that is alarm-
ing and dangerous. In such cases, the in-
jury is generally imputed to going into the
water too warm ; whereas, in truth, it arises
from going in too cold.
“ But though it be perfectly safe to go
into the cold bath in the earlier stage of
exercise, nothing is more dangerous than
this practice after exercise has produced pro-
fuse sweating, and terminated in languor
and fatigue ; because, as has been already
repeated more than once, in such circum-
stances the heat is not only sinking rapid-
ly, but the system parts more easily with the
portion that remains.”
In these judicious observations, the dis-
FOR COLD BATHING.
17
crimination of the two states of the body is
properly and accurately m?de : in the one
of which, when the temperature of the body
is at the highest point, cold bathing will be
useful and salutary ; while in the other
state, when the body is in some measure
cooled down below its ordinary temperature,
the same practice will infallibly prove hurt-
ful.
The proper condition of the body for using
the cold bath, may he easily ascertained by
a simple experiment in partial bathing. Let
any one, after the face and hands have been
exposed for some time to cold air, bathe
them in cold water, and observe the effects.
' Instead of the agreeable sensations and fine
glow of heat which even this partial appli-
cation of cold water usually produces, a chil-
liness and shrinking of the skin, as it were,
succeed, diffuse themselves over the body,
and continue even for a considerable time ;
unless, with the view of exciting the natu-
ral heat, recourse be had to artificial heat or
violent exercise. This experiment may be
varied by exposing one hand to cold, and
keeping the other in a warmer medium, and
18
CONDITION OF THE BODY
then bathing both hands in the same cold
water for the same length of time : the hand
whose temperature was reduced by the cold,
will experience unpleasant and chilly sensa-
tions, while the sensations of the other will
be warm and agreeable.
The popular opinion, that a sudden tran-
sition from a warm to a colder medium, when
the body is heated, or even in a state of per-
spiration, is followed with dangerous conse-
quences, is founded on incorrect observation
and erroneous notions of the nature of the
living powers. How rarely does it happen
that any bad effects are produced by going
into the open air at the temperature of freez-
ing, or even some degrees below it, after be-
ing in an apartment heated to 60 degrees,
or sometimes nearly to 70 degrees ? Catch-
ing cold, as it is called, is indeed often as-
cribed to this cause, and is supposed to be
the consequence of exposing the body to the
sudden alternations of heat and cold. But it
ought to be considered what has been the
previous state of the body ; and if this be
attended to, it will be found that the cough,
hoarseness, and feverish symptoms, which
mi 1 1 " "rife
FOR, COLD BATHING.
19
come under the denomination of a cold , and
are ascribed to exposure to cold, after being
for some time in a warmer medium, are
most frequently induced after profuse per-
spiration in the bustle and agitation of a
crowded assembly, and when the body is
exhausted by fatigue and enfeebled by lan-
guor.
The Roman youth, in the midst of the
most violent exercises, plunged into the
water, and swam sometimes oftener than
once across the river { and all this with the
most perfect impunity. But it is to be par-
ticularly remarked, that this immersion in
cold water did not take place when the bo-
, dy was debilitated by exertion, and cooled
by profuse and long continued perspiration ;
but while its vigour was little wasted, and
the heat was above the natural temperature.
The peasants of Finland exhibit, in the
use of the vapour bath, one of the most re-
markable instances of the instantaneous
transition from wide extremes of heat and
cold ; and so far from suffering any incon-
venience or injury from this practice, it seems
to be followed in some measure as an amuse-
ment. The vapour bath, which is employed
20
CONDITION OF THE BODY
in that country, is heated to the tempera-
ture of 160 degrees Fahrenheit, and even
sometimes higher. In this bath, and at this
high temperature, the peasants often remain
for half an hour, and sometimes for the space
of a whole hour ; during which, in the win-
ter season, they frequently go out of the
hath quite naked, and roll themselves in the
snow, when the temperature of the external
air is so far below the freezing point as to
give a number of degrees equal to l&O, or
equal to the distance between the boiling
and freezing points. They even come out
from the bath, still naked, and converse to-
gether for some time in the open air, and
sustain no injury whatever.
In one word, to have the full benefit of
the cold bath, the proper condition of the
body is when the heat is preternatural, whe-
ther this increase has been induced by exer-
cise or otherwise ; and even no danger need
be apprehended by going into the water when
a slight perspiration prevails. On the contra-
ry, the diminished heat of the body, and par-
ticularly when it is exhausted by fatigue,
and in a state of languor and debility, and,
FOR COLD BATHING.
21
in short, when the vital energy is reduced,
ought to be regarded as necessary precau-
tions to avoid cold bathing.
Sect. 3. — Proper mode of using the Cold
Bath .
It might seem at first sight an useless
discussion to enter into the consideration of
the mode of bathing, where nothing more
appears necessary than the immersion of the
body. But if some of the circumstances
connected with this immersion be overlook-
ed or neglected, it will be found that the
advantage expected from cold bathing will
be greatly diminished ; or, instead of be-
ing a salutary, it will prove, as it has often
done, an injurious practice. If, for in-
stance, much time is occupied in undress-
ing or preparing for immersion, and if the
bather remain too long in the water, bad ef-
fects will infallibly follow, and may lead to
the supposition, that the use of the cold
bath, being uncongenial to the constitution,
must therefore be abandoned ; and thus the
22
MODE OF USING
benefits to be derived from it under proper
management are finally relinquished. To
prevent such disappointment, and with the
view of having all the advantage from cold
bathing properly regulated, it is proposed,
in the present section, to consider what
should be done previous to bathing, the
time of remaining in the wrater, and the
future management.
It will be recollected, from the observa-
tions already adduced, that the great object
in the practice of bathing is to preserve the
temperature of the body undiminished. Any
deviation from the rules and precautions
which have this object in view, will un-
doubtedly be prejudicial* and ought there-
fore to be avoided. With this idea impress-
ed on the mind, it will not be necessary to
enter into any long detail in discussing the
points above alluded to.
Having by previous moderate exercise, or
otherwise, increased the temperature of the
body, so that it feels warm and comfortable,
and having reached the spot for bathing, the
clothes should be stripped off as quickly as
possible ; and that no time may be lost, it
THE COLD BATH.
23
might be a proper precaution, where it can
be conveniently observed, to have the dress
of such a nature that it could be easily and
expeditiously removed. To remain for any
length of time in a state of half preparation,
as it were, with part of the clothes laid
aside, must, it is obvious, reduce the tem-
perature of the body, and bring it to that
state when bathing should be carefully avoid-
ed. If, even during the heat of summer,
the body while half undressed is exposed to
the open air, it will, in a much shorter time
than is usually imagined, be so cooled, that
bathing afterwards will not be attended with
the salutary effects expected from it, and
sometimes the consequences may be preju-
dicial. The last, it seems extremely proba-
ble, is not unfrequently the case, from inat-
tention to the circumstance now under con-
sideration. The moment, therefore, that
undressing is finished, and this should be
performed as expeditiously as possible, the
body should be immersed in the water.
Many who have been little accustomed
to the use of the cold bath will recollect,
from their own experience, that the appre-
24
MODE OF USING
hension of the shock on first entering the
water, or the feelings of repugnance to en-
counter it which begin to operate powerfully
in preparing the body for bathing, occasion
no small delay at this time. But such ap-
prehensions and feelings are extremely hos-
tile to the beneficial effects of the cold bath ;
and even, independent of the hesitation and
delay thus induced, the strong aversion
which is excited is not without its effect in
frustrating the ends of cold bathing. It be-
comes necessary, then, by an exertion of the
mind, to conquer and suppress such feelings,
which, like other emotions, gain strength by
indulgence, and become at last habitual and
troublesome companions ; and to keep the
benefits of the practice full in view, seems
to he the only successful way of obtaining
this victory. These feelings seem to he al-
luded to by the poet —
Nor when cold winter keens the brightening flood.
Would I, weak, shivering, linger on the brink.
Thomson.
Being prepared for going into the water,
the proper length of time for remaining in
THE COLD BATH.
25
it is now to be considered ; and with regard
to this circumstance, the practice of bathing,
as it is commonly conducted, is most erro-
neous and hurtful. This point may be ea-
sily and satisfactorily settled by experiment.
Let any one take a single immersion in the
cold bath, and let the time he remains in it
not exceed a minute or two ; let him then
observe the effects which follow. Let the
same person, at another time, when he wishes
to use the cold bath, continue in it for eight
or ten minutes, as is the usual practice ; and
during this time, let him alternately plunge
into the water and expose the body to the
air ; he will now experience very different
effects. The first case will be followed by
an agreeable sensation of warmth, or a glow
of heat over the body, which may be regard-
ed as a sure test of the utility and benefit of
cold bathing, as well as by an increase of
muscular vigour and hilarity of spirits ; but
in the last case, chilliness and shrinking of
the skin, diminished vigour of the muscular
powers, general lassitude, and not unfre-
quently headache and depression of spirits,
with a variety of unpleasant sensations,
B
26
MODE OF USING
which no exertion during the rest of the day
can drive off, are the certain consequences
of remaining too long in the water.
The good effects of cold bathing, it ought
to he observed, depend on the sudden expo-
sure of the body to a medium colder than it-
self, by which a certain quantity of heat is
abstracted, and the consequent reaction, as
it is called, or exertion of the animal func-
tions, to restore to the body that degree of
heat of which it has been deprived. Now
these effects are directly counteracted by re-
maining too long in the water, and still more
so by alternate immersion in the water, and
exposure to the air. Every time that the
body is placed in a medium colder than it-
self, it is necessarily robbed of a new portion
of heat. But in the intervals of the immer-
sion, when the body is exposed to the air
of the atmosphere, another and a consider-
able portion of heat is carried off, in conse-
quence of the evaporation of the water from
the surface of the body ; so that by this prac-
tice it is cooled down, as it were, or deprived
of a greater portion of its heat than the vi-
tal functions can in a short time recover ;
THE COLD BATH.
27
and hence the sensation of chillness and
other disagreeable feelings which are thus
induced.
These bad effects will be in some measure
obviated by keeping the body immersed in
the water during the whole time that the ba-
thing is continued, so that no part of the heat
shall be carried off by evaporation. These
effects, too, are still farther obviated by the
practice of swimming. Those who have ac-
quired this art should never fail to practise
it while they remain in the water ; for be-
side the uninterrupted immersion of the
body, the requisite muscular exertion in
swimming tends greatly to keep up the ba-
lance of temperature, which is lost by placing
the body in a medium so much colder than
itself. But the safe and obvious rule is, to
remain only a very short time in the water ;
at least those who have a delicate constitu-
tion, or who wish to insure all the salutary
effects of cold bathing, will do well to ob-
serve it strictly. The length of time, in-
deed, may be in some degree regulated by
the season of the year and the temperature
of the water. When the season of the year
28
MODE OF USING
is mild and the water not cold, the period
of immersion may, without much risk of
danger, he protracted ; hut when the air is
keen and sharp, and the temperature of the
water is greatly reduced, the time of remain-
ing in it ought to he very short.
Here it is proper to notice another sin-
gular error which has crept into the prac-
tice of bathing, and which has received coun-
tenance and support even from some medi-
cal writers. According to this erroneous
opinion, it is said that the head should be
immersed, as well as the rest of the body,
immediately on going into the water ; and
the reason assigned for this practice is, that
the accumulation of blood in the head, with
all its direful consequences, which would
take place by neglecting this precaution,
may be prevented. Without entering into
any physiological discussion on this point,
which is far from the object of this treatise,
it may be asserted, that no such repulsion
to the head, or accumulation of blood, ever
happens without exhibiting the terrible sym-
toms of a violent disease ; so that in the
view of warding off an attack of this disease,
THE COLD BATH.
29
no danger from the omission of wetting the
head need at all be apprehended. On the
contrary, it seems to be extremely probable
that many of the bad effects which are as-
cribed to cold bathing, and which have for-
ced many to abandon it, who were anxious
to persevere in its use, derive their origin
from this very practice, which common opi-
nion has sanctionedandrecommended. And,
indeed, what hurtful consequences may not
be expected from the impression of the wa-
ter on such delicate and sensible organs as
the eye and ear, while at the same time it en-
ters the mouth and nose, threatening suffo-
cation. Every person who plunges headlong
into the water will recollect the partial stu-
por and unpleasant sensations which are
thus induced, and would probably forego
this most violent outrage on his feelings,
were it not from a strong conviction of the
utility of the precaution. Asa proof that
no advantage is gained by immersing the
head, it is a very common practice with many
persons to put on a cap when they bathe,
so that the water is prevented from coming
into contact with the head ; and no incon-
so
MODE OF USING
venience arising from this practice is ever
complained of. But let those who are not
strongly prepossessed in favour of wetting
the head, put the matter to the test of ex-
periment ; little doubt will remain of the
result, when a comparison is made with the
comfort and agreeable feelings which the ba-
ther will enjoy by avoiding this violent prac-
tice of total submersion, and the tingling
ears, blinded eyes, and partial suffocation,
which are occasioned by suddenly plunging
the head under water. In one word, the
benefits of the cold bath will most assured-
ly not be diminished by entirely omitting
this practice ; but if those who are eager to
indulge in it, from an impression of its uti-
lity, feel no inconvenience or bad effects
from it, they may persevere.
With regard to the management of the
body after bathing, little need be said. Ha-
ving remained the proper time in the water,
the bather should leave it as quickly as pos-
sible, and he should be equally expeditious
in drying the body with a cloth. When
this is done, he should speedily resume
his usual dress ; and if convenient, it will
THE COLD BATH.
Q1
ol
be found useful to take moderate exercise.
By this management, if the body has not
been too long in the water, and is thus too
much cooled down, a glow of heat will soon
diffuse itself oyer the surface, indicating that
the proper and salutary effects of bathing
have been induced. But in case, from de-
licacy of constitution, any chilliness, or other
unpleasant sensations, should remain for any
length of time after leaving the bath, it may
be beneficial for those who bathe before
breakfast to sit down as soon as convenient
to that meal ; and for those who do not
bathe till some time in the forenoon, to take
some warm soup, with the view of restoring
the heat, and along with it the vigour of the
body.
The observations now offered relate to
cold bathing in general ; but it may be pro-
per to add, that although not the smallest
doubt can exist of the beneficial effects of
every kind of cold bath, yet where an op-
portunity of enjoying it occurs, bathing in
sea water is always to be preferred : and in
fixing on the best situation for the purpose
of bathing in the open air, and reaping all
32
MODE OF USING
the benefit to be expected from it, whenever
a selection can be made, the warmest and
most sheltered situation should be chosen.
Those, therefore, who have occasion to re-
sort to the sea-side for the purpose of bath-
ing, will do well, when it is in their power,
to choose a place which is protected from
the prevailing winds on that part of the
coast. The propriety and advantage of this
choice must be obvious ; for, besides that
bathing in such a situation will at all times
be more comfortable, it may not only be
continued with less interruption when the
state of the weather renders it in more ex-
posed places impracticable, but the period
of the bathing season may, from local cir-
cumstances, be protracted : and it ought to
be recollected, that these are advantages of
no small value. Bathing is not to be ex-
pected to operate as a charm. Like many
other safe and efficacious remedies, the uti-
lity of which depends on the regularity, con-
stancy, and perseverance of their application,
it will in many cases require to be long and
steadily continued before its beneficial ef-
fects can be fully recognized. It must,
IA A ? „ !J *i
C
THE COLD BATH.
33
therefore, in this view, appear to be of ma-
terial importance, that bathing, after it has
been begun, should be carried on without
interruption while it shall be deemed neces-
sary to persevere in its use.
But the benefits of cold bathing are still
farther improved where an opportunity of-
fers of enjoying these benefits within doors ;
and at the same time it may be added, all
the inconveniences of bathing in the open
air, by which its salutary effects are often
directly counteracted, are thus entirely ob-
viated. Here the temperature of the air
and of the water may be uniformly kept up
nearly at the same degree ; from the accom-
modations provided in buildings appropria-
ted to this purpose, no time need be lost in
undressing previously to bathing, or in dress-
ing after it ; and some time may be allow-
ed to elapse before going into the open air,
till the body has recovered its usual condi-
tion, and the glow of heat indicating the
good effects of bathing begins to diffuse it-
self over the surface.
Many, and perhaps most of the advan-
tages of cold bathing may be enjoyed with
B 2
34
MODE OF USING
no great inconvenience within doors, and at
all seasons of the year. The shower bath,
as it requires little space, and but a small
quantity of water, is a very commodious ap-
paratus for domestic bathing. But although
to many persons it has proved, when perse-
vered in, highly beneficial, yet to others,
and to those seemingly of a constitution not
more delicate, its effects have been some-
times injurious. The sudden application of
the water to the body is one of the peculiar
advantages of the shower-bath; and the
only objection to its use with some persons,
is the severity of the shock, particularly
when the water falls directly on the head.
The force of the shock might be diminished
by having the apparatus so contrived that
the water shall fall down gradually, and not
in one sudden dash. By such a contrivance,
I am persuaded, the shower-bath would be
materially improved, and the objection now
alluded to would be fully obviated. But
even in its present form, the violence of the
shock on the head may be avoided by bend-
ing the body forward to allow the stream of
water to fall on the shoulders, or to incline
THE COLD BATH.
35
the body to one side, with the same view7,
or to have the head covered with a wax-
cloth bathing-cap, or, as some have recom-
mended, to have a board of seven or eight
inches diameter so fixed, that the head shall
be protected from the force of the current.
Let me again repeat, for the sake of those
who may not have adverted to what has
been said on the subject of wetting the head
in sea-bathing, that no apprehension or
alarm need be entertained of a sudden flow
of blood to the head, and all its direful con-
sequences, by this practice ; and let me as-
sure the general reader, that wetting the
head, either first or last, in the time of ba-
thing, is no security against an event of so
fatal a nature.
A common washing tub, with a moderate
supply of water, may be employed as a sub-
stitute for the shower-bath ; and, indeed,
with this simple apparatus, which is within
the reach of every family, without any ad-
ditional expence, all the essential advanta-
ges of cold bathing may be always at com-
mand. The tub is about half filled with
water, or, to such a height as, when the ba»
36
MODE OF USING
tlier sits down in it, the water may not run
over ; with a quart jug, or any other con-
venient vessel, the water is poured succes-
sively on the shoulders, the back, and breast,
either by the person who bathes, or an as-
sistant ; and as the whole operation may be
completed in a few minutes, without expo-
sure to the air, this simple mode of enjoy-
ing the cold bath possesses many advanta-
ges. With a little management, a bath of
this kind may be employed in a closet or bed-
room without spilling a drop of water ; but
even should this happen, the inconvenience
of it may be obviated, by placing the tub
on a piece of wax cloth. In a tub of the
ordinary dimensions for domestic use, the
whole body of children may be immersed ;
and in one somewhat enlarged in height
and diameter, full grown persons may also
have the benefit of total immersion.
In many cases it may be of some import-
ance, when bathing is had recourse to with-
in doors, to increase the temperature of the
water. When a small quantity is employ-
ed, as in the shower bath, and the other
method just recommended, it is easy to
THE COLD BATH.
37
bring the water to the temperature of the
apartment in which the apparatus is placed,
by filling the vessels the evening before the
bath is used ; if found necessary for delicate
constitutions, this temperature may be ele-
vated by the addition of a portion of boil-
ing water, when a course of bathing first
commences ; and by diminishing the heat
of the water a few degrees daily, it may at
last, without inconvenience, be used at the
ordinary temperature of the apartment or of
the atmosphere.
I cannot conclude this section without
reprobating in strong terms the method of
* bathing children in the sea, by throwing
them backward into the water, and plun-
ging them head and ears under its surface,
at the very moment they are uttering,
either from fear or obstinacy, the most
piercing cries. This barbarous practice, I
suspect, has its foundation in the prevailing
prejudice of the absolute necessity of wet-
ting the head on first going into the water,
— a prejudice which, I trust, has been suffi-
ciently combatted, and shewn to be ground-
less. But this practice, which is common
38
MODE OF USING
in this part of the country, and I fear is not
unusual in most parts of the kingdom, has
a direct tendency to counteract the benefi-
cial effects of cold bathing, in consequence
of the violent agitation into which the child
is thrown, the involuntary dread that is ex-
cited, and the determined resistance, how-
ever feebly exerted, that is made. The
practice, if it must be persevered in, is sus-
ceptible of some improvement, by immer-
sing the poor sufferers with the face down-
wards ; and if they are not taken unawares,
they will naturally shut the eyes and mouth,
by which the danger of suffocation, and many
disagreeable feelings, may be in a great
measure obviated. But if strong aversion,
amounting in some cases to a kind of hor-
ror, exist in children to cold bathing, the
use of it ought not to be urged, till the vio-
lent feelings are subdued by soothing mea-
sures ; otherwise no good whatever can be
expected from it, in opposition to any vio-
lent emotion.
Before proceeding to the consideration of
the diseases in which cold bathing is found
beneficial, it may be worth while to bring
THE COLD EATII.
39
into one view what has been said with re-
gard to its proper use.
Concise Rules, founded on the 'preceding
Observations, which should be followed
in using the Cold Rath .
1 . Persons of a delicate or feeble con-
stitution should not bathe in cold water
early in the morning ; by others, any time
in the early part of the day may be chosen
for this purpose.
2. Cold bathing should never be employ-
ed unless the temperature or heat of the
body is by exercise, or otherwise, somewhat
increased, or even when a slight perspira-
tion has begun.
3. When the body has been long expo-
sed to exertion and fatigue, or after profuse
sweating, when lassitude, debility, and chil-
liness prevail, the use of the cold bath should
be dreaded and shunned.
4. When the body is in a proper degree
of heat, undress as quickly as possible, and
immerse it in the water.
40
COLD BATHING
5. To have the greatest benefit from cold
bathing, remain a very short time in the
water, not exceeding a minute or two, and
during the whole time keep the body un-
der the surface of the water.
6. On coming out of the water, wipe the
body dry with a cloth, and quickly resume
the ordinary dress.
7. After bathing, use moderate exercise
to promote the return of the heat of the bo-
dy, taking care that it be not violent or too
long continued.
8. If chilliness partially or generally pre-
vail, take breakfast after bathing in the
morning ; or in the forenoon, some warm
soup.
Sect. 4. — Of the Diseases in which Cold
Bathing may he useful.
It is not the object of this Treatise to
give a full and detailed account of all the
symptoms of the diseases in which beneficial
effects may he expected from the use of the
cold bath. For as it is addressed to those
USEFUL IN DISEASES.
41
who are not supposed to be familiar with all
the deviations from the healthy state to
which the body is liable, such a discussion
would not only be useless, but, being misun-
derstood, might be injurious. Such being
the case, it is proposed to point out briefly
those complaints only in which cold bathing
is obviously useful, and in which no danger
of mistake or misapprehension can arise,
even with the least discerning. Wherever
any doubt or difficulty arises with regard to
the utility or safety of the application, re-
course should be had to the opinion of an
experienced medical practitioner.
j Fever. — The use of the cold bath in fe-
ver, it would appear, has been long known
among different nations ; but the practice
was revived by the late Dr Wright, who ex-
perienced its advantages in warm climates.
The late Dr Currie of Liverpool has demon-
strated and proved its utility, by a great
body of illustration, in his Medical Re-
ports ; and it may be added, wherever it has
been pursued with judgment and vigour,
the most beneficial effects have followed,
either in stopping the progress of fever en-
42
COLD BATHING
tirely, abridging its period, or moderating
the violence of its symptoms.
The affusion of cold water, rather than
immersion, has been most generally employ-
ed ; and as it is the speediest mode of ap-
plication, it ought always to be preferred.
But whatever be the mode adopted, the
same cautions and rules that have been
given to regulate the practice of cold bathing
in general, should here be still more rigidly
observed. These rules are, that it should
be employed only during the hot stage of
fever, when the heat of the body is preter-
naturally increased, when there is no chilli-
ness, and when the sensible perspiration is
not general or profuse. It is of the utmost
importance to attend to these circumstances. •
The hot fit of fever usually comes on in the
afternoon or evening ; it is generally mark-
ed by restlessness, flushing of the face, and
increased thirst ; and the heat of the body,
as indicated by the thermometer, will be
found to be one or two degrees above the
average heat of the fever. While these
symptoms prevail, which is commonly be-
tween six and nine in the evening, the af-
USEFUL IN DISEASES.
43
fusion of cold water is safest and most bene-
ficial.
But if this application be made during
the cold stage, very different effects will
follow. A temporary suspension of respi-
ration is induced, the pulse is frequent and
feeble, and the surface of the body, as well
as the extremities, becomes colder and shri-
velled. This remedy, therefore, should be
cautiously avoided when any considerable
degree of chilliness prevails, even although
a greater heat than usual is indicated by
the thermometer applied to the trunk of the
body.
The use of the cold bath should also be
avoided in fever, when the heat of the bo-
dy is less than usual ; it should be avoided
too, when the heat is only equal to the na-
tural standard, even although no degree of
chilliness should prevail ; and as this some-
times happens in the last stage of fevers,
this discrimination ought to be carefully
made.
It has been already hinted, that immer-
sion in the cold bath may be useful and sa-
lutary when the body is under moderate
44
COLD BATHING
perspiration, and especially when this per-
spiration has been excited by exercise ; and,
indeed, this is recommended as a proper and
necessary preparation for the use of the cold
bath. But in feverish disorders, when pro-
fuse sweating has come on, and especially
after it has continued for some time, the af-
fusion of cold water should then be avoid-
ed ; for instead of being beneficial, it would
undoubtedly at this time be highly perni-
cious. By means of profuse perspiration
the body is rapidly cooled, and thus it is
brought to that state in which the use of
the cold bath, as has been already shewn,
would be extremely improper. It may then
be adopted as a general rule, which should
be rigidly observed, that the cold bath
should not be resorted to in all cases where
profuse sweating has been of any consider-
able duration ; nay, it should not be em-
ployed in such cases, even although the heat
of the body may appear at the time to be
preternaturally increased, and this increase
of temperature may be indicated by the ther-
mometer. For it will be found, that after
sweating has continued freely for some time,
USEFUL IN DISEASES.
45
the temperature of the body will sink great-
ly when it is exposed to the cold air ; and
still more so, when it is subjected to the af-
fusion of cold water, or immersion in the
cold bath.* Keeping in view the hints and
cautions already given, the affusion of cold
water may he employed at any period of fe-
ver ; but the most beneficial effects may be
expected from it when it is applied in the
earlier stages; in the more advanced periods,
its application is more doubtful and preca-
rious.
But as these observations are not intend-
ed for medical practitioners, by whose opi-
nion and advice the propriety of using the
cold bath in fevers, where nicety of discri-
mination is required, ought always to be re-
gulated, it would be quite unnecessary to en-
ter farther into detail on this point. Those
to whom they are addressed will be at no
loss, by observing the rules laid down, in
what circumstances cold bathing may be ef-
fectually employed in those slighter feverish
disorders which are characterized by increa-
* Currie’s Medical Reports, i. 19.
46
COLD BATHING
seel thirst and heat of the body, headache,
and general uneasiness ; a combination of
symptoms which, on their appearance, when
they exist without any local affection, come
under the denomination of having caught a
cold. In such cases, and particularly when
the general uneasiness and the other symp-
toms become more troublesome towards the
evening, the cold bath, either by affusion
or immersion, may he safely had recourse to,
and its use will be followed with the most
salutary effects. A single application in
proper time has often prevented a severe and
tedious illness. But when affusion or im-
mersion is inconvenient, very essential bene-
fit may be obtained by sponging the body
even partially, as the face, breast, arms, and
legs ; and the use of warm water in this
way is often highly advantageous in dimi-
nishing the violence of the symptoms, and
procuring refreshing repose.
The cold bath has often been peculiarly
useful in removing a kind of slow, irregular
fever, which is sometimes extremely trou-
blesome to persons of sedentary habits, and
particularly to those whose pursuits require
USEFUL IN DISEASES.
47
much attention and exertion of thought.
Such habits are apt to induce anxiety of
mind and irritability of constitution ; and
lienee, without much deviation from the re-
gular functions of the digestive organs, arise
an impaired appetite, with a frequent pulse,
a burning heat in the hands, and restless
nights. A disorder of this kind, from the
symptoms being at first slight, excites little
uneasiness or alarm ; but it often continues
with irregular attacks for a long time, and
with little' interruption to the ordinary busi-
ness of life, excepting that it renders it irk-
some and fatiguing. If, however, nothing be
done to retard its progress, or to mitigate
its effects, the symptoms become gradually
stronger and more confirmed, till at last the
disorder, as has not unfrequently happened,
terminates in hypochondriasis, or some de-
gree of mental derangement.
A disease of this kind, originating in a
relaxed and debilitated state of the consti-
tution, admits only of being removed by re-
storing its usual tone and vigour. The cold
bath, employed according to the rules and
precautions laid down, will be found to be
48
COLD BATHING
tlie most efficacious remedy that can be ap-
plied, not only in procuring relief from the
symptoms, hut what is of essential advan-
tage, in preventing their recurrence. The
rules and precautions ought to be more ri-
gidly observed in proportion to the delicacy
and irritable state of the constitution, and
consequently the advanced stage of the dis-
ease. Cold bathing should be had recourse
to on the first attacks of the disorder ; and
wherever an opportunity offers of cold bath-
ing in sea-water, it should undoubtedly be
preferred.
Intermittent Fevers. — F evers of this cha-
racter, to which persons who have resided in
warm climates, or in the fenny counties of
England, are extremely liable, and which, if
long protracted without relief, prove most
harassing complaints, have been entirely re-
moved by the use of the cold hath, even after
every other remedy had been applied in vain.
But it is proper to observe, that cold bath-
ing should not be resorted to in fevers of
this kind, till it has been ascertained that
no affection or induration of the liver or
other viscera has taken place. This is by no
USEFUL IN DISEASES.
49
means a rare occurrence in those who have
been long afflicted with intermittent fevers
in tropical regions ; and this being the case,
cold bathing would be highly injurious.
Nervous Diseases. — Experience has
shewn that many of the diseases which
come under this denomination have been
greatly relieved, and sometimes have been
entirely cured, by the proper use of the cold
bath, and particularly by sea bathing. In
such complaints, sea bathing is recommend-
ed by some highly respectable medical wri-
I ters.
Palpitation of the Heart , Hypochondri-
asis.— In these diseases, which indicate ge-
neral debility of the nervous system, and
are therefore denominated symptomatic, sea
l bathing has been found greatly beneficial.
Want of sleep, one of the most distress-
ing symptoms that accompanies these com-
i plaints, is often removed by its use.
St Vitus's Dance. — This is another ner-
vous affection, which is often difficult of
cure. Sea bathing has been found effectual
in removing it.
50
COLD BATHING
il
■ :
jjli 1
I
lif!
m
li
Epilepsy and Convulsions. — In cases of
epilepsy which occur previously to the time
of puberty, and before the disease is habitu-
ally confirmed, sea bathing has effected a
complete cure. It has proved equally bene-
ficial in convulsive disorders, to which chil-
dren are often liable. But before the cold
bath is employed, it will be found useful to
administer a mercurial purgative, as calo-
mel, for the purpose of restoring the action
of the bowels. Convulsions in children are
often occasioned by the accumulation of slimy
matter in the intestines ; which latter is sup-
posed to be in some measure owing to worms.
This matter being carried off, the cold bath-
ing invigorates the system, and thus pre-
vents its future accumulation. According
to the experience of some eminent practi-
tioners, the utility of the cold bath is most
to be depended on, when it is employed in
convulsive disorders, during the height of
the fit.
Hysterical Affections. — During the time
of a hysteric fit, it is found that dashing cold
water suddenly on the face and neck, puts
an end to it ; and in such cases, in the ab-
USEFUL IN DISEASES.
51
sence of the fit, sea bathing has been resort-
ed to with great benefit, from its effect in re-
storing the general vigour of the system.
Chincough. — When this disease has con-
tinued a long time, it assumes what is call-
ed by medical writers the chronic form, when
it is accompanied with a regular evening at-
tack of fever, and wasting of the body. The
beneficial effects of change of air, and espe-
cially of sea air, are well known in this dis-
ease ; but after the cough has ceased, sea
bathing may be resorted to withad vantage,
to recover the lost strength and vigour of
body.
Nervous Headache. — Headache of this
description most frequently depends on the
disordered state of the stomach and organs
of digestion ; and in many cases much be-
nefit may be derived from sea bathing.
Rheumatism.— Sea bathing has been
strongly recommended by some in that stage
or species of rheumatism which, from its long
duration, is called chronic. This species of-
ten succeeds the inflammatory stage of rheu-
matism. Here the joints are affected with
painful and puffy swellings. But in such
52
COLD BATHING
cases the utility of the cold bath seems
doubtful, and therefore it should be resort-
ed to with caution. When, however, the
constitution is considered entirely free from
the disease, sea bathing may be employed
with the view of invigorating the system,
and rendering it less susceptible of the ope-
ration of those causes which induce rheuma-
tism.
Gout. — Cold bathing has been lately ex-
tolled by some as a safe and efficacious re-
medy, even during the height of a fit of this
excruciating disease ; while the practice has
been loudly condemned by others. In a point
of such moment, it would be rash to decide
on doubtful grounds. It will, therefore, be
prudent to wait till future experiment and
observation have finally settled it. But with
a view to strengthen the constitution, and
to prevent the recurrence of the disorder, or
at least to mitigate its severity, the cold bath,
during the intervals of the fits, prudently
managed, may be attended with much ad-
vantage.
Constipation of the Bowels. — Every per-
son is aware how much the health is affect-
USEFUL IN DISEASES.
5 3
ed by any irregularity in the digestive or ex-
cretory organs. When the stomach and bow-
els are disordered, the whole system is de-
ranged. Some cases of obstinate costiveness
have occurred, which, after having resisted
the most active internal medicines, have
yielded to the simple remedy of dashing
cold water on the lower parts of the body ;
but in less violent cases, sea bathing will be
found beneficial in restoring the regular ac-
tion of the bowels. Persons of sedentary
habits are peculiarly liable to disorders of
this kind. To them, therefore, cold bathing
will be highly useful, in exciting the dimi-
nished action of the bowels, and in renewing
the tone and vigour of the whole system.
Bilious Complaints. — Most of the com-
plaints which are usually and indiscriminate-
ly ascribed to an excess or accumulation of
bile in the stomach, are really owing to in-
digestion and general debility ; and were
this the proper place, it would be easy to
shew that such is the nature of the diseases
which come under this very general and of
late fashionable designation. Unless there-
fore it appear, from attentive examination.
54
COLD BATHING
that there really does exist some affection
of the liver, the cold bath, and perseverance
in its use, adhering strictly, at the same
time, to a moderate and cooling regimen,
and avoiding, if necessary, vegetable food,
will he found singularly beneficial.
Sore Throat. — There are two diseases
which, in common language, come under this
denomination, and which, as they are charac-
terized by distinct symptoms, may be easily
recognized. In the one, the internal surface
of the throat and breast is inflamed. This ap-
pears from the sensation of heat, and from the
soreness and rawness of the throat, which are
accompanied with troublesome, frequent, and
tickling cough, and sometimes with hoarse-
ness. The first attacks of this kind of com-
plaint of the throat are often successfully re-
sisted by the topical application of the cold
hath. Cloths dipped in cold water, and ap-
plied externally to the throat and breast,
wiping afterwards with a dry cloth, and co-
vering up with flannel, will often arrest the
progress of the disease. But to those who
are subject to such complaints, general cold
bathing may be safely recommended as a
USEFUL IN DISEASES.
55
simple and efficacious remedy in preventing
the recurrence of the disorder.
The other species of disease of the throat
is accompanied with swelling and pain of
the glands at the sides of the throat and
under the jaw, and with difficulty of swal-
lowing, especially liquid substances. In this
species, when the inflammatory symptoms
run high, suppuration is the consequence.
Some persons, and especially those of a san-
guine temperament, are peculiarly liable to
the attacks of this kind of sore throat, du-
ring the variable state of the season on the
approach of winter and spring ; and to them
cold bathing will be found highly useful.
But it ought to be observed, that the cold
bath is not recommended during the attack
of the disease. This might prove extremely
hurtful, and therefore must be avoided. But
when the symptoms have disappeared, it may
be efficaciously employed in bracing the sys-
tem, to enable it to resist the operation of
those causes which are apt to induce this
troublesome and painful disorder.
What has been called aphthous sore
throat, is considered also as a peculiar spe-
56
COLD BATHING
cies. Persons of a delicate constitution, who
reside much in crowded cities, are liable to
this species, which is characterized by a sal-
lowness of complexion, listlessness, and aver-
sion to exertion, relaxation of the uvula, and
somewhat of a honey-comb appearance of the
glands in the inside of the throat. Cases
have occurred, in which this disease has
been induced by anxiety of mind ; and in
others, most frequently in females, it is oc-
casionally attended with a total loss of voice,
which sometimes suddenly supervenes. Sea
bathing has been here found beneficial ; but
it has sometimes happened, that the disease
has recurred on returning to town and for-
mer occupations. This recurrence might
perhaps be prevented by persevering longer
in sea bathing ; or, if this cannot be conve-
niently accomplished, by having recourse to
the cold bath, in fresh water, within doors ;
and even the simple application of a sponge
or towel, dipped in cold water, to the throat,
morning and evening, has, in some cases,
obviated the tendency to every species of
this disease.
USEFUL IN DISEASES.
57
Inflammation of the Eyes. — The most
decided experience might be adduced of the
beneficial effects of cold bathing in certain
stages of inflammation of the eyes. When,
indeed, the inflammatory symptoms, such as
the pain, swelling, and intolerance of light,
are violent, it is scarcely necessary to observe
that cold bathing ought not to he employ-
ed. But when these symptoms have abated,
sea bathing will be found the most efficaci-
ous remedy in removing the weakness which
is the consequence of such affections, and
which not unfrequently becomes habitual
and extremely troublesome.
Scrophula. — Of the benefit to be derived
from cold bathing in scrophulous affections,
much doubt may be entertained. No reme-
dy, indeed, has been more generally resort-
ed to ; so that any hint which seems to con-
trovert a fashionable practice will be recei-
ved with hesitation. When the disease has
assumed an active form, when any of the
glands, which are the seat of this disease,
exhibit symptoms of inflammation, as swell-
ing, redness, pain, and tendency to suppura-
C 2
58
COLD BATHING
tion, and when suppuration or ulceration
has actually commenced, the use of the cold
bath ought most assuredly to he laid aside.
But persons, especially in the earlier periods
of life, who seem constitutionally affected
with scrophula, or have this peculiar habit
of body, will certainly receive great benefit
from sea bathing, before the disease has ap-
peared in swellings of the glands of the neck,
or of the joints ; which latter is usually term-
ed white swelling. In such cases, cold bath-
ing, with a generous regimen and moderate
exercise in the open air, may be safely re-
commended as proper and useful, with the
view of invigorating the system.
Rickets. — Sea bathing is highly benefi-
cial in this disease ; and is considered by
some as the best and most effectual reme-
dy in strengthening the constitution, and
thus enabling it to resist the tendency to
the disorder.
Female Complaints. — Cold bathing is
undoubtedly useful in many disorders to
which females, at different periods of life,
are subject. But here some discrimination
is necessary, to ascertain when it may be
USEFUL IN DISEASES.
59
safely ancl beneficially resorted to, and when
it ought to be avoided.
In chlorosis, which comes on about the
time that the constitution of the female is
approaching to maturity, much benefit may
be expected from cold bathing when it is ju-
diciously directed ; and those who experience
its invigorating and refreshing effects should
persevere in its use ; but to those who have
a pale complexion, a feeble pulse, and a lan-
guid habit of body, accompanied with slight
swelling of the extremities, the cold bath is
usually hurtful. The utility of the warm
bath, in such cases, will be afterwards no-
ticed.
Excessive menstrual discharges, and others
of a similar nature, are often checked by the
proper use of the cold bath. The tendency
to abortion, connected perhaps with irregu-
larity or excess in these discharges, or ari-
sing from peculiar habit or delicacy of con-
stitution, will be obviated by sea bathing ;
and, indeed, the cold bath may be employ-
ed not only safely but beneficially during the
whole period of pregnancy, by those who have
60
COLD BATHING, &C.
been accustomed to its use from the begin-
ing.
Debility of Constitution. — After a long
course of mercurial medicines, the strength
and vigour of the body are greatly reduced.
Sea bathing has been found, from experi-
ence, to be a more powerful remedy in ob-
viating and removing the weakness and ir-
ritability which are induced by the use of
such active medicines, or occasioned by the
disorders for which they are administered,
than any means that have yet been devised.
The only precaution to be observed is, that
in cases where mercurial medicines have
been exhibited, their effects should be al-
lowed to pass off before recourse is had to
the cold bath, otherwise its use might prove
injurious rather than beneficial.
CHAP. II.
OF WARM BATHING.
The warm bath, as has been already ob-
served, was greatly employed as a luxury by
the Greeks and Romans. In the more de-
generate days of the latter people, it became
so prevailing and attractive a gratification,
that it seems to have been a serious object
with the emperors to erect immense build-
ings for this purpose, with the view of ac-
quiring popular favour; and the ruins of
some of these splendid establishments, which
exist at this day, justly excite the wonder
and admiration of every traveller. The baths
of Dioclesian, it is said, exceeded all the
others in magnificence and extent; and
those of Caracalla, according to some au-
thors, were so large as to admit convenient-
ly, not fewer than 1800 persons to bathe at
the same time.
62
EFFECTS OF
W ater heated to a proper temperature is
most generally employed for warm bathing.
In some countries the vapour hath is pre-
ferred. This kind of bath was greatly used
by the ancient inhabitants of Mexico, as
well as by their descendants at the present
day. The vapour is obtained by throwing
water on heated stones, in a kind of furnace
or close apartment, in which the person who
uses the bath stretches himself on a mat.*
A vapour bath, somewhat similar, is in use
among the peasants of Finland.! The va-
pour hath is also a frequent luxury among
some of the Eastern nations.
In this country, except for topical affec-
tions, water is solely employed for the pur-
pose of warm bathing ; and from its having
become, in different parts of the world, both
in ancient and modern times, an idle and
luxurious enjoyment, an unfavourable opi-
nion of its utility long prevailed. But at
present, the benefits which have been deri-
ved from the warm bath seem to have pro-
* Clavigero, Hist, of Mexico, i. 429.
■f Acerbi’s Travels.
WARM BATHING.
63
duced a different impression on the public
mind ; and the numerous accommodations
which of late years have been established,
and to which crowds annually resort, shew
that it is not regarded merely as a luxury ;
and indeed, when the benefits obtained from
warm bathing are better known, no doubt
can remain that a practice so salutary will
be facilitated and extended. Here, then, it
may be worth while to consider, 1. The ef-
fects of the warm bath on the living body ;
2. The temperature and time of using it ;
and, 3. The diseases in which it is found
beneficial.
Sect. 1. — Of the Effects of the Wa?'m
Bath on the Body.
The first sensible effect of the warm bath
on the body is the sensation of warmth ; and
this effect is perceived although the tempera-
ture of the water be some degrees inferior
to the heat of the body. This sensation of
warmth is no doubt partly excited by the
increased heat of the water, in which the
64
EFFECTS OF
body is immersed, above that of the air of the
atmosphere. This effect follows when the
water is heated a little above 90°, which is
considerably below the heat of the body ;
and it has been proved, by experiment, that
it is not merely dependent on the change of
the medium, and the relative temperature
of the air and water, but that there is a real
increase of heat. In a short time after
immersion in water heated to 93°, the ther-
mometer previously introduced into the
mouth, when it stood at 9B°, was observed to
rise to 100°. After a quarter of an hour had
elapsed, during which time the temperature
of the bath remained stationary, the thermo-
meter fell to 98°, and stood at that degree
while the experiment was continued. The
following explanation has been given of
these phenomena. The heat of the body is
regulated by the process of transpiration, or
secretion from the skin ; but this process is
for a time interrupted, while the body is
completely surrounded by a dense medium
like water ; and while this interruption con-
tinues, the heat of the body is accumulated,
which augmented heat is indicated by the
WAUM BATHING.
65
thermometer : but when the balance of the
powers, which have operated this change,
has been restored, the heat of the body re-
turns to its former standard.
The warm bath also affects the respira-
tion. During the immersion the respira-
tion is observed to be somewhat slower than
usual. This retardation is ascribed to the
increase of weight of water to be displaced
during each inspiration, so that some degree
of voluntary effort is required to elevate the
ribs and distend the chest ; but on the ces-
sation of this exertion, the chest, by the ad-
ditional weight of the water, rapidly sub-
sides, and forces the air suddenly from the
lungs. From this, it would appear that the
inspiration only is retarded, and that the ex-
piration is accelerated. But may it not be
suspected that experiment and observation
are still wanting fully to verify these facts,
and that this change in the respiration, in
consequence of immersion in warm water, is
owing to some other cause ?
The effects of warm bathing are not to be
limited entirely to its preventing the escape
of heat, and thus producing an accumula-
66
EFFECTS OF
tion in the body. It has been clearly ascer-
tained that there is a copious and constant
secretion going on from the surface of the
body. In a set of elaborate experiments
which were conducted by Seguin and La-
voisier, the nature of this function has been
particularly investigated, and the relation
between the secretion from the lungs and
that from the surface of the body deter-
mined. It may perhaps be considered as a
curious piece of information to state the
whole quantity transpired, on an average,
from the lungs and surface of the body,
in a man not using laborious exercise, as it
was ascertained in the above experiments.
This quantity amounted to 1 8 grains every
minute, 2 oz. 2 dr. every hour, and 54 oz.
in the course of twenty-four hours, taking the
rate of the quantity thrown off to be always
the same. But this quantity, it must be ob-
served, is liable to considerable variation
with regard to diminution and increase from
increased or diminished exercise and heat.
A very general opinion had prevailed pre-
vious to the experiments above alluded to,
that part of the fluid was absorbed by the
WARM BATHING.
67
pores of the skin during the immersion of
the body in warm water ; so that, by impreg-
nating baths with substances of a nutritive
quality, it was supposed that life might be
supported when the stomach, from disease,
could not admit or digest the proper quan-
tity of food. But it has been clearly and
fully proved, that no such absorption or in-
halation takes place by the skin, while the
external cuticle remains unimpaired.
These experiments have been mentioned
for the purpose of stating some conclusions
of considerable practical utility, which may
be obviously deduced from the facts thus es-
tablished. From this view of the nature of
the functions of the animal economy, the
grateful feelings and renovated vigour, which
are the result of warm bathing properly re-
gulated, may be satisfactorily accounted for.
The body, after immersion for some time in
water, heated to such a temperature as not
to quicken the circulation, was accurately
weighed ; and it was found, that the quan-
tity of matter perspired was only equal to
about two- thirds of what would have been
lost, had the same person remained exposed
68
EFFECTS OF
to the air for the same length of time. Du-
ring immersion, it is to be observed, the ac-
cess of air being prevented, the perspiration
from the skin is thus suspended, while that
from the lungs goes on as usual. Not aware
of this temporary suspension of the perspi-
ration from the skin during immersion in
the warm bath, the small loss of weight sus-
tained by the body, while compared with
what happens in the open air, may have
misled less accurate observers, and brought
them to suppose that an absorption of the
fluid in the bath actually took place. An-
other fact admits of explanation from these
experiments. It has been observed that
thirst is alleviated by the immersion of the
body in water. This is to be accounted for
from the circumstance of the interruption of
the cutaneous perspiration, and not on the
supposition that any thing is received into
the body.
It was found also by the same philoso-
phers, that when the temperature of the wa-
ter was raised so high as to accelerate the
circulation, and increase the action of the
exhalants to discharge their contents in the
WARM BATHING.
69
form of sweat, notwithstanding the density
of the medium in which the body was pla-
ced, and its consequent pressure on the sur-
face, the loss of weight, even during immer-
sion in the bath, was considerably increased.
From what has been stated of these cu-
rious experiments, it will not be difficult to
conceive why immersion of the body, after
being exhausted by exertion, in a bath heat-
ed to the temperature of 90°, or some de-
grees higher, should be so grateful and re-
freshing ; for by its effects the immediate
causes which produce debility and lassitude
are removed ; the waste of the matter per-
spired is checked ; and the loss of heat,
which passes off during the process of per-
spiration, is prevented. In this state of the
body, the utility of warm bathing will be
found no less proper, and its effects no less
salutary, than immersion in cold water, as
has been already shewn, would prove impro-
per and injurious.
It would lead into unnecessary discussion
particularly to trace the history of warm
bathing among the ancients, and of the
abuses which afterwards crept into the prac-
70
EFFECTS OF
tice, and which, perhaps, may have been in
some degree the means of bringing it into
disrepute even in modern times. It was
originally employed for the purpose of re-
freshment after fatigue. Those who had
been engaged in violent exercises, as was
the case in some of the favourite amuse-
ments of the Greeks, found their exhausted
vigour renewed, and their depressed spirits
elevated, by immersion in the warm bath ;
but, from being an useful and invigorating
practice, it degenerated at last into a mere
luxury ; and from the too frequent use of
warm bathing, its effects, at the same tem-
perature, as might be expected, gradually
diminished ; so that it became necessary, for
the purpose of having the same degree of en-
joyment, to increase the temperature. The
obvious consequence of this increased tem-
perature was, that the body was debilitated
and relaxed, instead of being refreshed and
invigorated. At one period of the Roman
Republic, it was the duty of some of the
public officers to see that the heat of the
public baths was properly regulated, before
the people were admitted to them ; but af-
WARM BATHING.
71
terwards, when this beneficial precaution
was neglected, it appears to have been no
unusual thing to raise the heat of the water
nearly to the boiling temperature. It is not
therefore to be wondered at, that debility
and disease should be the certain conse-
quences of exposing the body to the action
of heat in a medium so much higher than
its own temperature. But these pernicious
effects will be avoided by proper attention
to regulate the temperature of the bath ;
and by this attention to the regulation of
the heat, the practice of warm bathing, in
consequence of the agreeable and salutary
effects which may be obtained from it, will
be more generally followed than it has hi-
therto been.
Sect. 2. — Of the proper Temperature and
Time of Using the Warm Bath.
One of the greatest abuses of the warm
bath is that which has been mentioned
above, and which was very prevalent in the
degenerate times of the Romans. When
72
TEMPERATURE OF
the heat is too great, effects, the very reverse
of what should be expected from it, take
place ; for then, instead of increasing, it di-
minishes the vigour of the body.
When the water is under the tempera-
ture of 90°, it scarcely comes under the de-
nomination of a warm hath ; hut the in-
crease of a few degrees of temperature above
that point, will be found to produce a ma-
terial difference in its effects on the body.
When the heat of the bath is raised to 98°,
which is about the temperature of the hu-
man body, it generally quickens the pulse ;
and it is observed, that this effect follows
when the water of the bath is at a lower de-
gree of heat in the evening than before din-
ner. When it is proposed to excite perspi-
ration by means of the warm bath, the heat
should be gradually increased during im-
mersion, till it is raised to the temperature
of 100°. At this temperature the pulse
will be accelerated, and the increased per-
spiration will appear on the face ; and this
increased action, should it be thought ne-
cessary, may be kept up for some time, by
9
THE WARM BATH.
73
going immediately from the bath to a warm
bed.
It ought to be recollected, that the sensa-
tion of warmth depends on the relative
change of temperature to which the body is
exposed; so that the senses ought not to
be trusted in regulating the heat of the wa-
ter employed in warm bathing ; for if one
part of the body has been some time in a cold
medium, water at a low temperature will
feel warm, while another part of the body ex-
posed to a warm medium, when immersed in
the same water, experiences a sensation of
cold. This shews the propriety, and indeed
the necessity, of regulating the temperature
of the bath by means of a thermometer.
The neglect of this precaution has some-
times occasioned serious accidents ; for the
body can bear a degree of heat which will
produce hurtful consequences if it be gra-
dually increased, and even with an increased
sensation of pleasure. One case is on re-
cord, of the effects of inattention to the re-
gulation of the temperature of the warm
bath by the thermometer. A gentleman,
to whom warm bathing had been recom-
D
74
TIME OF USING
mended, experienced a very agreeable sensa-
tion after immersion ; and not aware of the
danger of increasing the temperature, added
more warm water, with the view of increa-
sing the pleasure : the consequence of which
was, from the excessive heat of the bath, that
the circulation was accelerated, and a slight
paralytic affection was induced.
The best and most obvious rule that can
be given for regulating the warm bath, ex-
cept in cases where it is to be employed with
a particular view, is, that the heat should
never be so great as to accelerate the circu-
lation, or quicken the pulse. It has indeed
been asserted by some writers on warm bath-
ing, that the frequency of the pulse is uni-
formly reduced in a bath whose temperature
does not exceed 96° ; but it seems probable
that this position is susceptible of consider-
able variation from different circumstances ;
such as peculiarity of constitution, and the
time of the day when the bathing is em-
ployed.
It appears from general experience, that
the most beneficial effects may be expected
from the use of the warm bath at a temper-
THE W Alt M BATH.
75
ature between 90° and 95°. At this tem-
perature, it seems to be fully ascertained that
it may be used with much advantage and
with perfect safety ; and, excepting with
some particular view, it ought never to be
resorted to at a higher degree of heat, other-
wise the danger from its stimulating effects
is considerable ; and, indeed, it is extremely
probable that the debilitating or relaxing
effects of the warm bath, as they have been
denominated, with some degree of oppro-
brium, have arisen from inattention to the
proper regulation of the temperature. Per-
haps, too, some of the bad effects which are
ascribed to warm bathing, may have been
produced by employing it at an improper
time of the day.
Daily experience shews that the circula-
tion, even in persons who enjoy perfect
health, is considerably accelerated towards
the evening. It is of little importance to in-
quire, whether this augmented circulation,
and increased frequency of pulse, is to be as-
cribed to the stimulating effects of food, or
to the debility which succeeds the exertions
of the body during the day, or to the ope-
76
TIME OF USING
ration of both these causes. But the fact is
certain, and its application is obvious in re-
gulating the use of the warm bath. If, then,
warm bathing be resorted to in the evening,
while the body is in this state of increased
irritability, the tendency will be still farther
to increase it ; and hence it happens, that
the warm bath employed late in the even-
ing, has not had the effect of soothing and
refreshing the system, and thus producing
agreeable repose, but has been often follow-
ed by a watchful and sleepless night.
Keeping then this in view, the most proper
time for the use of the warm bath seems to
be about an hour or two before dinner. The
warm bath is probably employed seldom er
at this time of the day, from an erroneous
opinion of the consequences, according to
which, it is supposed, that the body, on ex-
posure to the air, is more susceptible of
catching cold ; but this opinion is founded
on inaccurate observation, and want of dis-
crimination of circumstances. It is no un-
usual thing for feverish complaints to be in-
duced by exposing the body to cold air after
it has been heated and exhausted by immer-
THE WARM BATH.
77
sion ; but the state of the body is very differ-
ent after immersion in the warm bath. When
the body has been subjected to exertion and
fatigue, the augmented perspiration rapidly
diminishes its heat ; but when it is placed
in a medium about its own temperature, the
heat is not only prevented from escaping,
but it is perhaps accumulated ; from which
accumulation the body is better able to re-
sist the action of cold after coming out of
the warm bath ; and in this view, there
would be the same risk of catching cold by
leaving a warm bed and going into the open
air when the temperature is at 32°, as after
immersion in the warm bath. No more dan-
ger need be apprehended in the latter than
in the former case, which is too familiar
ever to be the subject of a thought.
The proper time and manner of using the
warm bath have occupied the attention of
Count Rumford ; and an experiment, made
with his usual accuracy on his own person at
Harrowgate, affords so apt an illustration of
the points under discussion, that it will pro-
bably be deemed worth while to quote it at
length in his own words. <£ Being at Har
78
TIME OF USING
rowgate,” he observes, “ on account of my
health, I at first went into a bath, warmed to
about 96° of F ahrenheit’s thermometer, every
third day. At first, I went into the bath
about ten o’clock in the evening, and re-
mained in it from ten to fifteen minutes ;
and immediately on coming out of it, went
to bed, my bed having been well warmed,
with a view to prevent my taking cold.
“ Having pursued this method for some
time, and finding myself frequently feverish
and restless after bathing, I accidentally, in
conversation, mentioned the circumstance to
an intelligent gentleman, who happened to
lodge in the house, and who had been in
the habit of visiting Harrowgate every year.
He advised me to change my hour of bath-
ing, and to stay longer in the bath ; and
above all, to avoid going into a warm bed
on coming out of it. I followed his advice,
and shall have reason all my life to thank
him for it.
“ I now went into the bath regularly
every third day, about two hours before din-
ner, and staid in it half an hour ; and in
coming out of it, instead of going into a warm
THE WARM BATH.
79
bed, I merely bad myself wiped perfectly
dry with warmed cloths, in a warmed room
adjoining to the bath ; and dressing myself
in a bed-gown, which was moderately warm,
I retired to my room, where I remained till
dinner time, amusing myself with walking
about the room, and with reading or writing,
till it was time to dress for dinner.
“The good effects produced by this change
of method were too striking not to be re-
marked and remembered. I was no longer
troubled with any of those feverish heats
after bathing, which I experienced before ;
and so far from being chilly, or being par-
ticularly sensible to cold on coming out of
the bath, I always found myself less sensi-
ble to cold after bathing than before. I
even observed repeatedly and invariably,
that the glow of health, and pleasing flow
of spirits, which resulted from the full and
free circulation of the blood, which bathing
had brought on, continued for many hours,
and never was followed by any thing like
that distressing languor which always suc-
ceeds to an artificial increase of circulation
80
TIME OF USING
and momentary flow of spirits, which are
produced by stimulating medicines.
“ I regularly found that I had a better
appetite for my dinner on those days when
I bathed, than on those when I did not
bathe ; and also that I had a better diges-
tion and better spirits, and was stronger to
endure fatigue, and less sensible to cold in
the afternoon and evening.
“As these favourable results appeared to
be quite regular and constant, I was indu-
ced to proceed to a more decisive experi-
ment. I now began to bathe every second
day ; and finding all the advantageous ef-
fects which I had before experienced from
warm bathing still continued, I was encou-
raged to go one step farther, and I now be-
gan to bathe every day.
“ This experiment was thought to be
very hazardous by many persons at Harrow-
gate, and even by the physician, who did
not much approve of my proceedings ; but
as no inconvenience of any kind appeared
to result from it, and as I found myself
growing stronger every day, and gaining
THE WARM BATH.
81
fresh health, activity, and spirits, I conti-
nued the practice, and actually bathed every
day at two o’clock in the afternoon, for half
an hour, in a bath at the temperature of
90° and 97° of Fahrenheit’s scale, during
thirty-five days.
“ The salutary effects of this experiment
were perfectly evident to all those who were
present and saw the progress of it, and the
advantages I received from it have been
permanent. The good state of health which
I have since enjoyed I attribute to it en-
tirely.” *
The authority of Dr Currie, whose at-
tention has been so much occupied in con-
sidering the nature and effects of bathing,
will be admitted to have great weight. The
following quotation contains his sentiments
on the temperature and time of using the
warm bath : “ The effects of the warm and
tepid bath,” he observes, “ though more in-
vestigated (than the effects of the cold bath,)
are scarcely better understood ; for perhaps
* Observations concerning the Salubrity of Warm
Bathing.
D 2
82
TIME OF USING
there is no part of medicine on which so
much has been written, and so little has
been decided. These subjects are connect-
ed together, and might form, with great ad-
vantage, part of an experimental inquiry
into the laws of animal heat. The com-
monly received opinion, that the warm bath
relaxes and enfeebles the system, must, I
apprehend, be admitted with many restric-
tions. Immersed in water or in air heated
to the degree that quickens the circulation,
we are doubtless speedily enfeebled ; hut by
a heat short of this effect, it may be dispu-
ted whether debility is ever produced. The
degree to which the hath must be heated in
order to quicken the circulation, approaches
nearly to that of the blood. In my own case,
I have found the pulse become more frequent
at 96°, when the stomach was empty, than
at 94° after dinner ; and the practice, said
to have been adopted by the ancients, of
going into the bath to relieve themselves
from the oppression of an overloaded sto-
mach, would appear to me to have been at-
tended with some hazard, and with great in-
convenience. It does not indeed appear how
THE WARM BATH.
S3
the desired effect was obtained, except
through the means of profuse sweating. In
future experiments respecting the effects of
the warm bath, it will be of importance to
observe the heat at which the sensible per-
spiration begins to flow ; which probably va-
ries a good deal in different constitutions,
and which, as it varies, will materially affect
the results. It will be important also to
notice the state of the stomach as to full-
ness, the condition of the pulse, the previous
degree of exercise, and the actual heat of
the surface ; all of which, according to my
observation, will influence the experiments.
“In all inflammatory diseases, it is of
importance not to use the bath heated to
the degree that materially quickens the cir-
culation ; where this is not attended to, the
symptoms are heightened, unless, indeed, a
speedy and profuse perspiration ensues. In
the degrees in which it does not quicken the
circulation, the warm bath is soothing and
sedative, especially when the immersion is
prolonged ; and it is the temperature from
90° to 95° that is so singularly restorative
after fatigue, though a still lower heat is
84
TIME OF USING
safe and refreshing, as those who have used
the baths of Buxton can testify.
“ The warm bath is frequently employed
to excite a sensible perspiration, which may
be prolonged after leaving it ; and in this
way it may be used with great advantage.
Where this object is in view, it is advisable
to immerse the patient in the water heated
to 94° or 95°, and very gradually and slow-
ly to increase the heat to 97°, or perhaps
98°, watching its effects. When the sweat
begins to appear on the forehead, if the pulse
remains calm, and the patient feels at ease,
an increase of heat to 90° or even 100° may
be ventured on with safety, should profuse
perspiration be required ; but when the bath
is heated in the first instance to 100°, the
stimulus of heat generally produces a fever-
ish circulation, which the subsequent defec-
tive perspiration cannot allay. The inju-
rious effects are still greater where the bath
is heated at first to 105° or upwards ; and
sweat, instead of flowing more freely in con-
sequence of the increased temperature, is
discharged with greater difficulty ; the sti-
mulus of the heat, and the suddenness of
THE WARM BATH.
85
its application, inducing a contraction of the
orifices of the extreme vessels of the skin.
In this respect, as in most others, the ana-
logy is perfect between the stomach and
surface ; for it will uniformly be found, that
sweating is excited more easily by draughts
of tepid liquor, than an equal quantity of
the same fluid swallowed as hot as it can be
borne.
“ The sensible perspiration excited in the
warm bath does not lower the temperature
of the body while immersed ; but being pro-
longed afterwards, it becomes powerfully re-
frigerant, and is a remedy of great efficacy.
These observations, however, shew the im-
portance of regulating the temperature of
the warm bath by the thermometer, and
demonstrate how little dependance can be
placed on the observations of those writers
who speak of its effects without noting its
temperature. A variation of twro or three
degrees, often impossible to be ascertained
by the sensations, will not merely vary the
degree, but alter the nature of its effects.”*
* Medical Reports, i. 283.
86
TIME OF USING
As the topical warm bath, or fomentation
with warm water, often produces the most
powerful effects, it may be worth while to
describe the most efficient method of using
it. A coarse towel is to he stretched over
a wide basin, and a large piece of coarse
flannel, at least half a yard square, is wrap-
ped together and placed upon the towel.
Boiling water from a kettle is poured up-
on the flannel till it is thoroughly wetted ;
the flannel is then wrapped up in the towel,
and the water wrung out of it by two as-
sistants. The moist flannel is then folded
up in a convenient form to be applied to
the place where the fomentation is required.
If it should be too hot, which is sometimes
the case when the water employed is at the
boiling temperature, it may be cooled down
to the proper degree, by holding it up un-
folded in the air for a few seconds. The
higher that the temperature is, the greater
will the effects be from the application, pro-
vided the skin to which it is applied do not
become tender, which would thus frustrate
its beneficial effects. The heat, therefore,
must be regulated by the feelings of the pa-
THE WARM BATH. 87
tient, excepting in the case of children,
when it must be judged of by the attend-
ants, who, to avoid the injurious conse-
quences alluded to, must employ greater
precaution.
That the heat produced by fomentation
may be continued without interruption, two
pieces of flannel should be provided, so that
while the one is applied, the other may be
in a state of preparation. Three or four mi-
nutes is generally a sufficient length of time
for one application. The time of continuing
the fomentation, it is obvious, must be re-
gulated according to the urgency of the
case.
The partial vapour bath, from which the
most beneficial effects are often obtained, is
in the power of every person who can com-
mand a little boiling water. A jug, or other
vessel, with a narrow mouth, which is capa-
ble of holding about two quarts, or any con-
venient size, is to be filled about three-
fourths with boiling water. When the va-
pour is to he inhaled by the mouth, as in
cases of inflammation of the throat and
breast, the opening of the vessel is to be
88
RULES TO BE OBSERVED
covered with a towel, leaving only a space
for the mouth and nose. In other cases, the
parts to which the vapour is directed, must
be held over the vessel containing the water.
What has now been detailed in the two
foregoing Sections, on the nature, effects,
and temperature of the warm bath, as well
as the proper time for using it, may be sum-
med up in the following concise rules.
Hides to be observed in using the Warm
Bath.
1. When the bath is employed for the
purpose of refreshment after fatigue, the
temperature should never exceed 90° or
94° ; or it should never be so high as to
quicken the circulation.
2. For the same purpose, the time of re-
maining in the bath should not be less than
twenty minutes, or half an hour.
8. On coming out of the bath, the body
should be wiped dry with warm cloths, and
the usual dress resumed.
IN USING THE WARM BATH. 89
4. The most proper time of bathing is
when the stomach is empty, or an hour or
two before dinner. Never go to bed imme-
diately after warm bathing.
5. The warm bath should never be used
in the evening : for then it is apt to acce-
lerate the circulation, and thus to produce
feverishness and restlessness during the
night.
6. When the warm bath is employed to
produce sensible perspiration or sweat, let
the temperature be 94° or 95° ; gradually
increase it to 97° or 98° ; and if profuse
sweating be required, raise it to 99° or 100°,
provided the pulse be not quickened.
7. When the perspiration appears on the
face, the patient is to be removed to bed,
after wiping the body, and there the sweat-
ing is prolonged while it is necessary.
Sect. III. — Of the Complaints in which
Warm Bathing is found useful.
The preceding observations on the na-
ture and effects of the warm bath, will in
90
COMPLAINTS IN WHICH
some measure suggest its utility in various
diseases ; and from a consideration of the
nature of the disorder and the cure required,
will shew in what cases, and how far, it may
be safely and beneficially resorted to. It will
not therefore now be necessary to enter into
any long discussion on the use of warm bath-
ing as a remedy in disease. In what follows,
it is proposed to state briefly some of the
complaints in which the warm bath is obvi-
ously useful ; but it may be worth while pre-
viously to notice some of the more general
effects of warm bathing, as it is beneficial in
the early periods of life, on the approach of
old age, and on account of its detersive pro-
perties.
During the earlier periods of life, the
warm bath, employed under proper regula-
tions, would certainly be of essential service
in promoting and invigorating the general
health of the system. It would probably be
no less useful in preserving the skin in that
degree of softness and openness which are
closely connected with a healthy state of the
body. In many cases, too, from its action
on the skin, warm bathing might tend to
WARM BATHING IS USEFUL. 91
facilitate the progress, and by this means di-
Iminish the danger of various eruptive dis-
eases to which the earlier stages of life are
subject. This practice would infallibly be
followed by very different effects from that
which is too prevalent in this country, of
immersing children by force into the cold
bath or open sea, inducing such alarm and
terror as often to excite convulsions; — a
barbarous practice, which has been already
alluded to, but can never be too much re-
probated.
The warm bath has been strongly recom-
mended on the approach of old age, when
the secretions and various other functions
begin to be less active and vigorous. In such
cases, it may be regarded as one of the most
grateful enjoyments of declining life ; sup-
porting and renovating the diminished heat,
and thus retarding, as it were, the progress
of old age. On the utility of warm bathing,
in this point of view, Dr Darwin has the fol-
lowing observations : “ The story of iEson,”
he observes, “ becoming young, from the me-
dicated baths of Medea, seems to have been
intended to teach the efficacy of warm bath-
92
COMPLAINTS IN WHICH
ing in retarding the approach of old age.
The words relaxation and bracing , which
are generally thought expressive of the ef-
fects of warm and cold bathing, are mecha-
nical terms, properly applied to drums or
strings, but are only metaphors when ap-
plied to the effects of cold or warm bathing
on animal bodies. The immediate cause of
old age seems to reside in the irritability of
the finer parts or vessels of our system ; hence
these cease to act, and collapse, or become
horny or bony. The warm bath is peculiar-
ly adapted to prevent these circumstances,
by its increasing our irritability, and by
moistening and softening the skin, and the
extremities of the finer vessels which ter-
minate in it. To those who are past the
meridian of life, and have dry skins, and be-
gin to be emaciated, the warm bath, for
half an hour twice a-week, I believe to be
eminently serviceable in retarding the ad-
vances of age.” * The following anecdote
of the practice of the celebrated Franklin,
recommended to him by the same ingenious
* Loves of the Plants.
WARM BATHING IS USEFUL.
93
physician, is farther illustrative of the same
opinion : “ When Dr Franklin,” says Dr
Darwin, “ the American philosopher, was
in England, I recommended to him the use
of a warm bath twice a-week, to prevent the
too speedy access of old age, which he then
thought that he felt the approach of ; and
I have been informed that he continued the
use of it till near his death, which was at
an advanced age.” *
It cannot be doubted, that the warm bath
maybe highly useful, merely on account of its
detersive properties ; and when it is employ-
ed with this view, as a cleanser or purifier of
the skin, the temperature may he regulated
from 85° to 95°. When the secreted mat-
ters are allowed to collect and remain on the
skin for any length of time, it is not with-
out reason supposed, that by obstructing
perspiration, they must give rise to differ-
ent cutaneous diseases. It must therefore
be of great importance to the health of the
body, which depends so much upon the state
of the skin, and the proper action of its ves-
* Zoonomia, p. 686.
• 94 COMPLAINTS IN WHICH
sels, to have all the extraneous matters re-
moved as soon as they are deposited on its
surface. This is most effectually accom-
plished by the occasional use of the warm
bath. It was a custom with the ancients to
employ the leaves of the mallow, or the dry
flower of a species of vetch, for rubbing the
surface of their bodies while in the warm
bath. Common bran, or what is known by
the name of almond meal, might perhaps be
used as a valuable substitute for the same
purpose, and with equal effect.
Hectic Fever . — In the fever which comes
under this denomination, the strength of the
pulse is diminished, but it is increased in
velocity ; and these symptoms are accompa-
nied with a falling off or wasting of the bo-
dy. Here warm bathing will be found an
efficacious remedy. Even the hectic fever
which accompanies consumption, admits of
a temporary alleviation by the use of the
warm bath. Much benefit is often obtain-
ed in this kind of fever merely by sponging
the face, breasts, arms, and hands with warm
water.
WARM BATHING IS USEFUL. 95
Chronic Weakness . — The symptoms
which attend this complaint are a quick
pulse, a shrunk or shrivelled appearance of
the skin, and sleepless nights, without any
local diseased affection. Such cases, which
frequently resist the effects of the most pow-
erful medicines, receive great benefit from
the use of the warm bath. Here it ought
to be observed, that in this peculiarly irri-
table state of the constitution, cold bathing,
being generally hurtful, should be avoided.
Spasmodic Cough . — This troublesome
complaint, as well as other nervous affec-
tions, are often greatly relieved by the use
of the warm bath. Even the partial appli-
cation of warm water to the inferior extre-
mities, has proved one of the best remedies
in obviating or mitigating those convulsions
which sometimes are induced previously to
the eruption in diseases of the skin.
Colic Pains , <§c. — In these severe com-
plaints, the utility of warm bathing is not
sufficiently known. It may be employed ei-
ther generally or topically, and in both ways
with great advantage. Warm bathing is
also found highly useful in that species of
96
COMPLAINTS IN WHICH
colic which is occasioned by the poison of
lead ; and it rarely fails in proving benefi-
cial, by mitigating the severity of the pain
which is produced by the stoppage of bili-
ary calculi in the duct of the gall bladder.
In all these cases fomentation will be found
most effectual in procuring immediate re-
lief. The topical warm bath is peculiarly
effectual in those griping pains to which in-
fants are frequently liable, and which are
easily recognized by their severe crying, and
drawing up the feet.
Gravelly Disorders , <%c. — Great benefit
has been often obtained from the use of
warm bathing in many of the affections of
the urinary organs. The pain which is oc-
casioned by the passage of gravel along the
ureters, when it is interrupted by the spas-
modic contractions of these organs, and even
when it descends along the urethra, is great-
ly mitigated by immersion in warm water ;
and the terrible pain which is produced du-
ring a fit of the stone is often moderated
and relieved by the same means. It may be
added, that warm bathing will be of the ut-
most service in all the inflammatory affec-
10
WARM BATHING IS USEFUL. 97
tions of the kidneys. Here, too, the most
powerful effects may he expected from to-
pical bathing or fomentation.
Rheumatism, <%c. — In that species of rheu-
matism which is not accompanied with fever
or inflammatory symptoms, and which is
called chronic, warm bathing has been often
found so highly beneficial, that it may be
regarded in some measure as one of the
most certain remedies against this harass-
ing disorder. In some modifications of gout
and palsy, the utility of warm bathing has
been very considerable.
Fistulous Ulcerations and Piles. — In
fistulous sores of the perinseum, which, from
the peculiar state of the parts in which they
are situated, are extremely troublesome and
difficult of cure, much benefit has been de-
rived from the use of the warm bath. It is
recommended to continue the immersion in
water, which is agreeable to the feelings, for
an hour daily ; and by this practice it ap-
pears, that the pain and irritation are great-
ly alleviated, and a disposition to heal is in-
duced on the ulcerations. These ulcerations
E
98
COMPLAINTS in which
are often the consequence of piles, which
might be completely obviated by fomenta-
tion on the first attack of the disease. When
the pain and swelling first supervene, the fo-
mentation should be persevered in till they
are removed ; and, at the same time, it will
be of no small advantage for the patient to
remain in the horizontal position. This sim-
ple application, made in proper time, may
often prevent a most distressing disorder.
Obstructions. — In cases of suppression
or irregularity of the menstrual discharge,
which, from the irritable state of the system,
is not unfrequently accompanied with hys-
teric affections, the most beneficial effects
may be expected from warm bathing.
Swelling of the Extremities. — The warm
bath, it seems probable, may be employed
with considerable advantage in cases of
swelling of the legs, which is the conse-
quence of debility ; and it has been recom-
mended in all those cases where general de-
bility exists, accompanied with cold extre-
mities.
Croup. — In croup, which is so often fa-
tal in the earlier periods of life, the warm
WARM BATHING- IS USEFUL. 99
batli lias been long recommended. But in a
disease in which the termination is so often
doubtful, if the severity of the symptoms be
not speedily checked, topical bathing will
be found far more efficient. In those who
are supposed to be liable to this disease, the
first approach of the symptoms, such as tick-
ling cough, hoarseness, and difficult breath-
ing, should be carefully watched, and the fo-
mentation is to be steadily persevered in, till
they seem to give way ; and during the
interval of discontinuing the fomentation,
when the patient is fatigued and exhaust-
ed, rubbing the throat and breast with cam-
phorated ointment will be found highly use-
ful. But in this, as well as in all other cases
where the continuance of the fomentation is
of so much importance, care should be taken
that the water be not so hot as to render
the skin tender.
Inflammation of the Throat. — In slighter
affections of the throat, when the internal
surface is inflamed, and feels raw and sore,
topical cold bathing, followed by friction
with warm dry flannel, is often highly be-
neficial ; but when the symptoms assume a
ICO
complaints in which
greater degree of severity, and when the
glands are swelled and painful, the topical
warm bath is the best and the most effici-
ent remedy. In no case, indeed, are the ef-
fects of fomentation, when applied in time,
and steadily persevered in, so certain and so
rem arkable In both the kinds of sore throat
now alluded to, the partial use of the va-
pour bath, by inhaling the steam of hot
water in the way already directed, will be
found to contribute materially to the dimi-
nution of the inflammatory symptoms.
Scrophula. — Cold bathing has been al-
most universally recommended in scrophu-
lous affections, and it can scarcely be doubt-
ed that it must prove highly beneficial in
giving that strength and vigour to the con-
stitution which will enable it to resist their
effects. But when the disease has actually
supervened, and the swelling of the glands
has made some progress, the greatest bene-
fit may be expected from fomentation. In
such cases, as when the glands about the
throat or neck are swelled and indurated,
the fomentation should be repeated at least
three or four times in the course of the day ;
WARM BATHING IS USEFUL. 101
and perhaps the use of the warm bath it-
self, on every alternate day, would tend
greatly to promote a speedy cure.
Inflammation of the Eyes. — In the early
stages of inflammation of the eyes, fomenta-
tion is often found extremely useful in re-
lieving the pain, and removing the redness.
For the same purpose, the vapour hath,
which is applied by holding the eye affect-
ed over a vessel with hot water, is also very
effectual in diminishing the severity of the
symptoms. When the inflamed eye is very
tender, a bit of thin linen or muslin may be
placed upon it, before the application of the
flannel cloths wrung out of the hot water.
Ear ache. — In slighter cases of ear-ache,
the pain and inflammatory symptoms are
often removed by the topical vapour bath,
or by holding the affected ear over a vessel
nearly filled with water at the boiling tem-
perature. But when this excruciating dis-
order has assumed a greater degree of seve-
rity, recourse must be had to the most active
fomentation, and it must be continued with-
out interruption till the pain abates. In some
violent cases which have lately fallen under
102
COMPLAINTS IN WHICH
my own observation, the effects of the fo-
mentation seem to be greatly assisted by in-
troducing into the ear a little cotton moist-
ened with laudanum. The artificial heat
probably converts the tincture into vapour,
and in this state renders its action more ef-
ficient.
Tooth-ache. — Severe fits of the tooth-ache
may be alleviated or removed by fomenta-
tion. The flannel cloths are to be applied
to the affected jaw. When the pain is not
confined to one tooth, but is diffused over
the whole side of the head, the fomentation
will be found very effectual.
Pectoral Complaints . — In all those com-
plaints of the breast which come under the
appellation of colds , and are attended with
tickling cough, or exhibit pneumonic or
pleuritic symptoms, and are accompanied
with dull pain diffused over the chest, or
with sharp pains or stitches confined to par-
ticular parts, the use of topical bathing will
be found highly beneficial in mitigating the
cough and relieving the pain. The inhaling
of the steam of water at the same time, will
prove a valuable accessory remedy in produ-
WARM BATHING IS USEFUL. 103
ciiiff the same effects. The treatment now
recommended, when early adopted, and stea-
dily pursued, will often be the means of
obviating a violent attack of a dangerous
disorder, or at least of moderating the symp-
toms, and abridging the period of its course.
Cramp of the Stomach . — The severe dis-
order of cramp in the stomach, to which
some persons are peculiarly liable, is very
effectually relieved by fomentation vigor-
ously applied. A few drops, three or four,
of oil of peppermint, on a bit of white su-
gar, given at the same time, will be found
to produce very salutary effects. Gouty pa-
tients are subject to similar attacks, usually
designated gout in the stomach ; and if not
speedily relieved, such attacks have frequent-
ly a fatal termination. In such cases fomen-
tation will prove a most efficient remedy.
Sprains. — Bleeding with leeches, and
cold applications of vinegar, and solutions
of sugar-of-lead, have been long held as spe-
cific remedies in sprains and bruises ; but, in
such cases, I have found from repeated ex-
perience, that no plan of treatment yet de-
vised, is so speedy and powerful in relieving
104 COMPLAINTS IN WHICH
the pain and swelling as fomentation. From
the irritable state of the skin of the part
which has sustained the injury, it is neces-
sary to observe the precaution that the cloths
he not applied too hot.
Suspended Animation . — In the use of
the various means for the recovery of per-
sons apparently drowned, and indeed in all
cases of suspended animation, one of the
great objects is the restoration of the natu-
ral heat of the body. Among the different
methods that have been devised and recom-
mended for this purpose, fomentation with
cloths wrung out of hot water, has not, as
far as I know, yet found a place, although
it appears to be the most efficient that has
been thought of or suggested. The most
powerful and salutary effects are produced
by this mode of communicating heat to the
body in such cases. The fomentation is to
be applied to the extremities, but especially
to the trunk of the body, and to the region
of the heart. But the excellent effects of
this application will be best illustrated by
briefly detailing a successful case of recovery
WARM BATHING IS USEFUL. 105
from apparent drowning which fell under
my own treatment.
In summer 1819, a, hoy about six or se-
ven years of age had gone out in a boat from
Newhaven, near Edinburgh, along with
some of his companions not much older than
himself; and when about a mile distant
from the shore, he fell into the water, and
had floated a considerable distance from the
boat before he was picked up. As no very
distinct account could be obtained from the
juvenile adventurers, either how long he was
in the water, or what time was lost in reach-
ing the shore, the length of time from his
falling into the water till he was brought
home could not be precisely ascertained. All
agree that it could not be less than half an
hour, and some fix a much longer period.
Another half hour at least had elapsed
when I heard of the accident. Every pro-
per measure had been resorted to for the
purpose of restoring the heat of the body,
as warm cloths, bottles filled with warm wa-
ter, &c. applied to the trunk and extremi-
ties ; but still the diminution of heat was
E 2
106 COMPLAINTS IN WHICH
very considerable, the eyes were fixed, and
the eye-lids closed ; the respiration and pul-
sation were at times scarcely perceptible ;
and he seemed to be altogether in a state of
stupor. Besides the means already employed,
and which were continued, I had recourse to
friction all over the trunk of the body, but
more particularly about the chest ; and the
crowd, collected by anxiety or curiosity, was
dismissed from the apartment, which was
sufficiently ventilated by opening a window
distant from the bed. This treatment con-
tinued for more than two hours, and during
which several injections of warm water had
been administered, afforded little hopes of
a return of animation. On the contrary,
more than once or twice the respiration
seemed entirely to cease ; and being great-
ly exhausted with fatigue, I sat down as
often in despair. Having the command
of a greater quantity of hot water, the sup-
ply of which had been very scanty, I deter-
mined to try the effects of fomentation ; and
such was the influence of the heat commu-
nicated in this way, chiefly to the region of
WARM BATHING IS USEFUL. 107
the heart, that on the application of the se-
cond cloth wrung out of the hot water, the
eyes opened ; in a short time the motion of
the limbs was restored ; and in ten minutes
from the first application, the boy was able
to swallow a tea-spoonful of brandy diluted
with water, and mixed with sugar. The re-
covery now seemed no longer doubtful ; and
I am fully persuaded, would have been ef-
fected much sooner if a sufficient supply of
hot water could have been obtained.
In the course of the evening the breath-
ing became laborious and somewhat sterto-
rous, with flushing of the face, obviously ari-
sing from some pressure on the brain ; a
leech applied to the temple soon afforded re-
lief; next day the child was confined to bed ;
but the day following he was quite recover-
ed, and was able to amuse himself in his
usual way out of doors.
In such cases, and indeed in all cases of
suspended animation, as far as the vital
functions can be restored by heat, fomenta-
tion, according to the method recommend-
ed, furnishes the most efficacious means.
108 COMPLAINTS IN WHICH, &C.
When it can be (lone, the application should
be made not only to the region of the heart
and the stomach, but also to the extremi-
ties.
PART II.
DESCRIPTIVE NOTICES OF WATERING-PLACES
IN DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE KINGDOM.
INTRODUCTION.
T he choice of a place for drinking mineral
waters, or for sea-bathing, is, in the greater
number of cases, regulated by local circum-
stances rather than by a consideration of the
peculiar character of the mineral water, and
its suitableness to the relief of particular
complaints, or by attention to the prevail-
ing climate, or favourable shelter of bathing
quarters. In this choice, indeed, economy
must often be the chief guide. But where
the invalid has it in his power to make a
selection, some useful rules might be given.
Those who are of a feeble or delicate con-
110
WATERING PLACES.
stitutiou, and are advised to employ sea-
bathing, will do well not to approach the
eastern shores of the kingdom, in the early
part of the season, while the winds, sweeping
across the German Ocean, reach the coasts
of Britain, loaded with chilling vapours,
which not only affect transient visitors, but
make a serious impression on the health of
the permanent inhabitants, by inducing
colds, and various pectoral complaints. The
neglect of this precaution, it cannot be
doubted, has often frustrated the benefits of
sea-bathing, and has been followed by inju-
rious effects. Less occupied with the ordi-
nary business of life, or perhaps for a time
altogether disentangled from its concerns,
persons at bathing-quarters are much out of
doors, and are thus exposed to the piercing
east winds, and involved in dense fogs, in a
condition of body little prepared to resist
their baleful influence ; and thus, not only
is the restoration of health retarded, but a
new series of complaints is in some instances
induced. Excepting in the southern parts
of the kingdom, the east coast, and perhaps
BATHING QUARTERS.
Ill
some places on the west coast, should not be
visited earlier than after the middle of June.
Some writers speak of preparation for the
commencement of a course of sea-bathing,
and for this purpose recommend certain me-
dical treatment. These preliminary matters
seem to be in most cases altogether unne-
cessary ; and the vulgar error, that some
days should elapse before bathing is begun,
that the body may be habituated to the sea
air, has no stable foundation whatever. By
attention to the precautions already given
in the former part of this Treatise, no per-
son need fear the least injurious conse-
quence, should he plunge into the sea the
moment he reaches the coast ; and to insure
its beneficial effects, the best of all precau-
tions can never be too much urged, of re-
maining not more than a minute in the wa-
ter.
Peculiar circumstances also very frequent-
ly decide the preference given to a mine-
ral water, although it is quite obvious that
the climate, soil, and situation of a mineral
spring, as well as the season of the year,
should be kept in view by those who possess
112
WATERING PEACES.
the power of selection. In such cases, the
advice, it is probable, of a medical practi-
tioner will be followed. But perhaps even
the general reader may derive some assist-
ance, at least with a little chemical know-
ledge, from a short statement of the princi-
pal characters of mineral waters.
The peculiar properties of mineral waters
are derived from certain soluble substances
with which they combine as they filtrate
through the soil, or pass through the fissures
of the rocky strata of the earth. They have
been divided into four classes, namely, aci-
dulous or gaseous waters, saline waters, sul-
phureous waters, and chalybeate waters.
Acidulous waters are distinguished by a
penetrating acid taste, sparkle when they
are poured into a glass, give out bubbles of
air when they are agitated, and boil with fa-
cility, in consequence of the escape of the
carbonic acid with which they are generally
impregnated. When lime-water is added to
such waters, a precipitate is formed by the
union of the lime and carbonic acid, and the
formation of insoluble matter. Waters of
this description redden the tincture of turn-
MINERAL WATERS.
113
sole, and when they are strongly impregna-
ted with the acid, convert other blue vege-
table infusions to a red colour.
Saline waters are sufficiently characteri-
zed by the taste, which, as might naturally
be expected, varies according to the nature
of the salt held in solution. Common salt
or muriate of soda, is met with in almost
every kind of spring water; and even in such
waters as are accounted tolerably pure, mu-
riate of lime is common, and muriate of
magnesia, as well as Epsom salt or sulphate
of magnesia, is a frequent ingredient in mi-
neral waters. Some of the alkalies, and lime
combined with carbonic acid, are not un-
usual in most waters.
Sulphureous waters have a peculiar fetid
odour, which resembles that of the washings
of a gun, or of rotten eggs. The blackening
of lead and silver is another test of these wa-
ters. In some of them the sulphuretted hy-
drogen gas, to which they owe their distin-
guishing character, is held in solution by
the water, and in others it is combined with
lime, or with an alkali. In the first case, the
elastic fluid escapes entirely from the water.
114
WATERING PLACES.
by exposure to the air, or by boiling, and
leaves it in a state of purity, so that it is
fit for all ordinary domestic purposes ; and
in the last case, a white precipitate of lime
combined with carbonic acid, is formed. But
some sulphureous waters hold also in solu-
tion a portion of saline ingredients, which
continues in permanent combination.
Chalybeate waters , con stituting the fourth
class, are characterized by an astringent taste,
and produce a black colour, with the addi-
tion of an infusion of galls, and a blue co-
lour with the prussiate of potash. These
changes are owing to iron, which is held in
solution either by carbonic or sulphuric acid ;
and when the carbonic acid happens to be
in excess, the water has a penetrating taste,
and a slight degree of acidity. By boiling,
water of this description usually deposits a
brownish or reddish sediment.
It would be difficult to lay down precise
mles for the use of mineral waters, where
so many circumstances must be taken into
consideration. But it may be observed in
general, that the saline class of waters will
be found highly useful where mild laxatives
MINERAL WATERS.
115
'are required; and where it is necessary to re-
store the tone of the stomach and digestive
organs, and to renew the diminished vigour
of the system, some of the other three classes
may be administered with advantage.
It may he worth while to notice a very
erroneous, and, I suspect, not uncommon
practice, in the use of mineral waters. The
practice alluded to, of swallowing too great
a quantity of the water, especially at the
commencement of the course, probably has
its origin in the natural anxiety to obtain
immediate relief, and a speedy cure. But
as sudden changes of any kind have a con-
siderable effect on the animal frame, how
can it be supposed that a large quantity of
a mineral water taken into the stomach, in
a state of debility, and which has, perhaps,
never been accustomed to water of any kind,
shall not prove prejudicial ? And indeed it
can scarcely he doubted, that to this cause
is to be ascribed the failure and disappoint-
ment which many have experienced, and
which might have been fully obviated by be-
ginning the course with small quantities.
116
WATERING PLACES.
The following brief notices will be chief-
ly confined to the general character of the
watering place, the more prominent features
of the surrounding scenery, and the nature
and properties of the mineral water.
PETERHEAD.
Peterhead, which is the most northerly
watering place of the kingdom, occupies a
peninsular spot near the eastern extremity
of the coast of Scotland ; and combining
the advantage of a mineral spring with sea
bathing, has, of late years, risen to just ce-
lebrity, and has attracted, during the sum-
mer and autumn, crowds of visitors, chiefly
from the towns of the northern districts.
The distance of Peterhead from Aberdeen
is 33 miles, and from Edinburgh 139 miles ;
so that its remote situation from the central
and southern parts of Scotland precludes
their inhabitants from enjoying the two-fold
benefit which it holds out to the invalid.
Like other places on the eastern coasts,
Peterhead must be exposed to the cold winds
PETERHEAD.
117
and thick fogs from the German ocean du-
ring the spring and early summer months ;
but enjoying a dry soil, it affords comfort-
able walks and rides, and the busy scenes of
a sea-port town present an agreeable variety
of amusement to the stranger.
The best accommodations are provided
for those who visit Peterhead, both in pri-
vate houses and in the public establishments,
which are elegantly fitted up and well fur-
nished ; a public table is kept up ; and the
amusement of the company is not neglected
in the assemblies or balls held every fort-
night.
Commodious apartments have been con-
structed for cold and warm bathing ; so
that those who do not choose, or to whom
it may not be convenient to bathe in the
open sea, are not deprived of that benefit.
The mineral spring on the south side of
the town has obtained the appellation of the
wine well, because the water poured into a
glass sparkles like Champagne. It may be
considered as a combination of an acidulous
and chalybeate water, for it contains a large
proportion of carbonic acid in a free state ;
118
WATERING PLACES.
and beside the iron which is combined with
carbonic acid, it is impregnated with a por-
tion of common salt, and with some of the
salts of lime.
The water has been long in high repute,
in cases of general debility, in disorders of
the stomach, and in nervous and scrophu-
lous affections ; and when administered with
the precautions already alluded to, it cannot
be doubted that it will retain all its former
celebrity.
PITKAITHLY.
To those who admire rural scenery, and
picturesque beauty, the situation of Pit-
kaithly holds out many attractions. The
valley in which the spring rises, is water-
ed by the river Earne, which has obtained
some classic celebrity in Scottish song, and
confers the name Strathearne on the dis-
trict. The springs, of which several have
been discovered, are at a short distance from
the great road leading from Edinburgh to
Perth, and within three miles of the latter
PITKA1THLY.
119
city. The banks of the river are richly
wooded, and afford comfortable shelter to
the walks and rides of visitors ; while those
who are able and disposed to extend their
excursions to the higher grounds in the vi-
cinity, may command the romantic and va-
ried prospect of the mountains of the High-
lands rearing their rugged and lofty sum-
mits to the clouds, and the Tay, one of the
noblest rivers of the kingdom, issuing from
their distant recesses, and rolling its mighty
current to the ocean.
Transient visitors to Pitkaithly find good
accommodation at the inn, where a public ta-
ble is kept ; and those who make it a more
permanent residence, and are desirous of
more retirement, can provide themselves
with private lodgings in the neighbouring
villages.
The water of Pitkaithly belongs to the
saline class of mineral waters. It is com-
posed chiefly of muriate of soda, or common
salt and muriate of lime, and with a slight
trace of sulphate and of carbonate of lime.
The whole amount of saline ingredients in
an English pint of the water is about thirty-
WATERING PLACES.
.
120
five grains. But the different springs are
found to vary in strength.
The sensible effects of this water on the
animal economy are diuretic and laxative ;
and in many cases it has proved extremely
efficacious in restoring the diminished tone
and vigour of the stomach and digestive or-
gans. The quantity of water to be taken
must vary according to the nature of the
complaint, so that no precise rule can be gi-
ven ; but it must always be advisable to be-
gin with small portions.
DUNBLANE.
The mineral spring of Dunblane, which
is about two miles distant from the village,
was discovered in 1814, in consequence of
flocks of pigeons frequenting the small pools
formed by the water as it issued from the
earth. Pigeons, it would appear, are fond
of water thus impregnated with saline mat-
ter ; for the discovery of a similar spring in
the vicinity of Paisley was made in the same
way.
11
#
DUNBLANE.
121
Dunblane is six miles distant from Stir-
ling, to which a daily conveyance by canal
and steam-boats is now established from
Edinburgh, Glasgow, and the more popu-
lous districts of. Scotland. It is situated
on the banks of the Allan, a stream also
commemorated in Scottish song, and afford-
ing, by the liberality of the proprietors in
the neighbourhood, the finest and most ro-
mantic walks along its richly-wooded banks.
The antiquary will find some occupation in
tracing the history of the Cathedral, present-
ing, in its venerable ruins, a sad memorial
of the ravages of time, and of the more
dreadful ravages of fanatical zeal. Doune
Castle, an ancient baronial residence now
in ruins, at the distance of a few miles, on
the banks of the river Teath, will also fur-
nish some historic recollections of consider-
able interest. The district in which Dun-
blane is situated is well sheltered by the sur-
rounding mountains ; the soil is dry, and
the climate mild.
The water issues from two springs, the
more northerly of which is most strongly im-
. F
122
WATERING PLACES.
pregnatedwith saline matter, which amounts
nearly to forty-six grains in an English pint.
Ihe ingredients, which are nearly the same
as the waters at Pitkaithly, but in larger
proportion, are the following: Muriate of
soda, or common salt, twenty- four grains ;
muriate of lime, eighteen grains ; sulphate
of lime, three and a half grains ; and carbo-
nate of lime, half a grain, with a slight in-
dication of iron.
The mineral water of Dunblane, from si-
milarity of composition, may be recommend-
ed for the same complaints as the Pitkaith-
ly water ; and, as has been already noticed,
the effects are not to be estimated according
to the strength or quantity of the saline in-
gredients; for it appears from the experi-
ence of medical practitioners that the effi-
cacy of diluted solutions, or of small doses of
medicines, although less violent, is not less
permanent than when they are more liber-
ally administered. This water will be found
highly useful in cases of general debility,
and particularly in stomach complaints, and
it seems likely to be beneficial in scrophu-
lous affections ; but in disorders of the lat-
EDINBURGH.
123
ter description, it will be requisite to perse-
vere long in its use. — Murray, Edinburgh
Transactions , VII.
EDINBURGH.
The metropolis of Scotland is well situ-
ated for affording the advantages of sea-
bathing to the inhabitants ; within itself
it contains cold and warm baths, commodi-
ously fitted up at the Royal Infirmary, at the
Royal Hotel, Prince’s-street, and at the
W aterloo Hotel ; and a private establish-
ment of the same description, with the ad-
dition of vapour and medicated baths, in
Drummond-street ; and it can boast of sul-
phureous and chalybeate springs almost in
its immediate vicinity.
Portobello, which was little else than a
barren waste of sand, even in the memory
of persons yet living, is now an extensive
town, and has become the great resort of
the inhabitants of Edinburgh, for sea-bath-
ing. The dry soil is always agreeable for
walking ; the sea-beach is smooth and fine ;
12-4
WATERING PLACES.
and the air is pure and salubrious. Baths
for cold and warm sea-water have been con-
structed in an elegant and commodious man-
ner ; and a similar bathing establishment
has been formed at Sea-field, nearer Leith.
The inhabitants of Edinburgh visit also
Musselburgh, Prestonpans, and other towns
and villages to the eastward, for sea-bath-
ing ; and, perhaps, the distance, and the
want of travelling accommodation, preclude
North Berwick from being crowded with
visitors, which the coast and scenery would
draw to its shores.
The water of St Bernard’s Well, the
spring of which, on the banks of the Wa-
ter of Leith, is within a few minutes walk
of some parts of the New Town, is impreg-
nated with sulphuretted hydrogen gas, and
contains scarcely any other ingredient ; for,
when it is boiled, or even exposed to the air
for a few hours, it becomes quite pure with-
out the deposition of any sediment, as some-
times happens with mineral waters of this
class. The water of St Bernard’s Well, al-
though not of great strength when compa-
red with those of Moffat and Harrogate, of
CANDREN WELL.
125
the same nature, will be found useful in all
those cases in which sulphureous waters are
usually recommended ; and, in restoring
the tone and vigour of the organs of diges-
tion, after occasional excess, it will prove
peculiarly beneficial.
The chalybeate spring, near the bridge
of Bonnington, discovered within these few
years past, indicates by its taste the class of
mineral waters to which it belongs ; but al-
though it has not been sufficiently examined
to ascertain precisely the nature and pro-
portions of the saline ingredients in its com-
position, it may be safely recommended as
a useful tonic remedy.
CANDREN WELL, NEAR
PAISLEY.
As this mineral water has not been noti-
ced in any publication, excepting in a small
treatise on its chemical properties, and its
medicinal effects, by Dr Lyall, which was cir-
culated privately, it may be worth while to
introduce a short account of it, as the saline
126 -
watering places.
ingredients with which it is impregnated
seem to entitle it to attention.
The discovery of this spring, like the mi-
neral water at Dunblane, is ascribed to pi-
geons which were seen to collect daily, in
great numbers, in the furrows of the ridges,
and the holes of the field, where it oozed
from the earth : after long continued drought,
depositions of saline matter were seen on the
places from which the water had evaporated ;
and a workman, swallowing a copious draught
of the water, was much struck when he per-
ceived its strong saline taste. Some of the
water was carried to Paisley, with this in-
formation, and, being examined by some of
the medical practitioners, Dr Ilodman pro-
nounced it to be of the same nature as the
Pitkaithly water, but stronger in quality.
Like the waters of Pitkaithly and Dun-
blane, it rises from the fissures of a sand-
stone rock, and a well is dug to the depth
of ten feet.
The situation of this spring, in a flat
tract of country, about two miles to the
westward of Paisley, is, perhaps, not suffi-
ciently attractive of itself, to encourage vi-
CANDREN WELL.
127
sitors to a temporary residence on the spot,
even if proper accommodations were provi-
ded, so that those who come from a distance,
for the use of the water, must take up their
abode in Paisley, or in some of the neigh-
bouring villages.
The experiments of Dr Lyall, already al-
luded to, seem to have been conducted with
much care ; hut it would be necessary to
have them varied and repeated, before the
saline contents of this water can be consi-
dered as fully ascertained. From a wine
gallon of the water evaporated to dryness,
220 grains of solid matter were obtained.
This matter readily deliquesced when expo-
sed to the air. The following are the pro-
portions of the ingredients determined by
this analysis : — Muriate of soda, or common
salt, 110 grains; muriate of lime, 40 grains;
sulphate of magnesia, or Epsom salt, 30
grains ; muriate of magnesia, 27 grains ;
carbonate of lime, eight grains ; sulphate of
lime, five grains.
But, as it is stated that the crystals ob-
tained by evaporation are mostly of a cubi-
cal form, it may be suspected that the
128
WATERING PLACES.
quantity of common salt ought to be in-
creased, and magnesian salts diminished ;
and should this conjecture be verified by re-
peating the analysis, the composition of the
Candren Mineral Spring will approach more
nearly to the Pitkaithly and Dunblane wa-
ters.
The effects of this water on the animal
economy are similar to those of Dunblane
and Pitkaithly, and are found to he diure-
tic or purgative, and, in some constitutions,
it seems to have a tendency to promote per-
spiration. To derive the greatest benefit
from drinking this water, it seems probable
that it should be taken in small quantities,
frequently repeated. But the enormous
dose of two or three quarts, which, it is said,
has been sometimes swallowed, can scarce-
ly fail to be injurious to the most vigorous
constitution.
This water has been found peculiarly be-
neficial in constitutions relaxed by seden-
tary habits, or intemperance. It has been
recommended in scrophulous affections, and,
indeed, has been found useful, when perse-
vered in for a sufficient length of time, in
SEEDHILL.
129
such disorders. This water may be also be-
neficially employed in bathing ill-condition-
ed sores, or in washing the eyes in cases of
inflammation ; hut when applied to these
purposes, it should be used moderately
warm. For removing eruptions of the skin,
it may he taken internally, and used exter-
nally for bathing the part affected. Taken
in moderate quantities, it will he found use-
ful in cases of indigestion, or in such affec-
tions of the organs of digestion as come un-
der the common appellation of stomach, or
bilious complaints.
A sulphureous water rises from a spring
called the Seedhill, on the hanks of the
Cart, in the immediate vicinity of the town
of Paisley. It is similar in its properties to
the water of St Bernard’s Well, near Edin-
burgh, hut seems to contain a larger pro-
portion of common salt ; and yet, when it
is boiled, it is sufficiently pure for all do-
mestic purposes. Of its beneficial effects in
debility of the stomach, whether from re-
laxation, induced by a sedentary life, or oc-
casional excesses, the most ample evidence
might be adduced.
f 2
130
WATERING PI, ACES.
FIRTH OF CLYDE.
The shores of the Firth of Clyde are the
usual resort of the inhabitants of the west-
ern districts of Scotland, for sea-bathing ;
and in this preference the local position
probably has not more influence than the
excellent accommodation, salubrious air, and
picturesque scenery, which contribute so es-
sentially to the enjoyment of a temporary
retreat from the cares and business of the
crowded city ; and to almost all the places
now alluded to, the speedy and cheap con-
veyance of steam-boats holds out no small
advantage.
Helensburgh, in Dumbartonshire, is seat-
ed at the mouth of the Gare Loch, an arm
of the sea which advances many miles into
the country, is within an hour’s sail of Green-
ock, on the opposite shore, and has risen, of
late years, to great celebrity as a watering-
place. Besides the convenience of bathing
in the open sea, for which Helensburgh pre-
sents every facility, cold and warm salt-wa-
ter baths have been constructed, for those
FIRTH OF CLYDE.
131
who do not wish to be exposed to the open
air. The dry soil, and romantic views, af-
ford to strangers, not only in the immediate
vicinity, but in more distant excursions
along the banks of the loch, the most de-
lightful walks and rides ; while to the ob-
servant eye, the hold and rugged features
of the Highland mountains are strikingly
contrasted with rich fields in the finest state
of cultivation, and elegant mansions embo-
somed in extensive woods.
Gouroc/c, within two miles of Greenock,
has been long much resorted to for sea-bath-
ing ; and it holds out some advantages to
those who wish to be less retired, or who
are desirous of amusing themselves with an
occasional glimpse of the bustle and activi-
ty that prevail in that celebrated sea-port
town.
Auldkirh is five miles to the westward of
Gourock ; as a place for sea-bathing, pos-
sesses all the conveniencies of the latter ; is
in a more retired situation, and as the firth
opens, enjoys a more extensive and varied
sea prospect. The dry and sheltered walks,
' <" '■'■■■* Y ■ ! ~7,i ■
tls" u J Oc ^ Cl
l C IV 7/ f • > ( 3 (j- 1) 4-y
/ tr* if iJr intt .* 7 * J i. i . „ •
l r),, r / ' tl '
132 WATERING PLACES.
as well as the fine woodland scenery, will
serve also to recommend it as a watering-
place.
Largs, about seven miles farther to the
westward, on the same coast, is a thriving
town, in a fine dry soil ; commands a still
more extensive sea view, in which are in-
cluded the islands of Cumbray, Bute, and
the distant mountains of Arran ; has been
long a fashionable resort for sea-bathing ;
and now enjoys the advantage of cold and
warm salt-water baths, and a subscription
reading-room. Conveying the labours of in-
genuity and art to distant countries, or
loaded in return with the rich productions
of nature, from almost every quarter of the
globe, the ships daily passing to and fro
give a peculiar interest to the beauties of
this scene. Largs is memorable for the to-
tal defeat of the Norwegians, who, with a
great body of troops, under their king Haco,
invaded Scotland in the thirteenth century.
The narrative of this decisive battle, which
was fought in 1263, holds a conspicuous
place in the early history of the kingdom,
FIRTH OF CLYDE.
133
and much is still recounted of its progress
and glorious issue to the brave defenders of
their country, in local tradition.
As this coast was open to the attacks of
hostile invaders, numerous strongholds were
constructed for its defence. The remains
of many of these forts and baronial castles
being still visible, furnish to the antiquary
copious subjects of investigation. Port-in-
cross, a few miles along the shore, was a
royal residence ; and from this place the
devotees from the southern districts of Scot-
land embarked on their pilgrimage to Iona,
to perform their vows at the holy shrine of
St Columba.
An event that occurred in a later period
of our history renders this place not less
memorable. One of the ships of the formi-
dable Spanish Armada, which was sent out
in 1588 by Philip, for the conquest of Eng-
land, and soon after its appearance in the
British seas was dispersed by a storm, was
sunk opposite to Port-in-cross. The de-
scendants of the Spaniards, it is alleged,
may still be traced among the inhabitants
of the neighbouring parishes ; and in an at-
134
WATERING PLACES.
tempt to examine the wreck, which was
made about the year 1750, several guns of
brass and iron were brought up. One of
these guns, which was of iron, lay long on
the beach, and being deeply corroded, pre-
sented the appearance of a honey-comb ;
and another was transported to Greenock,
and set up on the street, for the ignoble pur-
pose of protecting the corner of a pavement
from the wheels of carriages.
Ardrossan. — Under the spirited exer-
tions of the late Earl of Eglinton, a com-
modious harbour has been formed, and a
new town has risen, near the old castle of
Ardrossan, formerly a residence of that fa-
mily. This castle was dilapidated in the
time of Cromwell’s protectorate, and the
materials were conveyed to Ayr, for the con-
struction of the fortification, great part of
which still remains.
No part of the coast is more. favourable,
or more convenient for sea-bathing, than
Ardrossan; but in the hotels and private
lodging houses, and in the cold and warm
salt-w7ater baths, no accommodation is want-
ing to render it an attractive watering-place;
FIRTH OF CLYDE.
135
and accordingly it is visited by families of
the first rank and distinction.
Troon , which is about half way between
Irvine and Ayr, is, like Ardrossan, a new
place, and is indebted for its origin and pro-
gress to the fostering care of the present
Duke of Portland. The shores in the vi-
cinity afford every convenience for sea-bath-
ing.
Ayr , which is situated on a fine dry soil,
offers numerous historical recollections, both
of ancient and modern date. It was the
scene of many of the daring exploits of the
renowned Wallace, for the deliverance of
his country from a foreign yoke, and of
whom much is preserved in legendary tra-
dition ; it was selected by Cromwell as a
station for his troops, and converted into a
stronghold in the way already alluded to,
for the purpose of maintaining his authori-
ty in the country ; and to the admirer of
Burns, every spot consecrated by his muse,
and commemorated by the powers of his ge-
nius, will excite the most pleasing emotions,
and add a double relish to the descriptive
delineations and impressive moral lessons of
136
WATERING PLACES.
our native bard, when they are read and
studied on the spot which gave them birth.
The Ayr, almost throughout its whole
course, and its romantic banks, are depict-
ed in his most glowing strains ; the Doon
is the subject of some of his sweetest effu-
sions ; and in the inimitable tale of Tam o’
Shanter, the whole legendary lore of the
district is artfully embodied.
The dry soil in the vicinity of Ayr af-
fords comfortable walks ; and a long extent
of a fine sandy beach renders sea-bathing
convenient and agreeable. But with the sea-
bathing, a mineral spring in the immediate
vicinity of the town holds out another advan-
tage to those who resort to this place. The
water of this spring, which has its source in
the coal strata, is of a chalybeate nature ;
and although it has acquired no reputation
beyond the limits of the neighbourhood, it
may be successfully employed in all those
cases for which similar waters are recom-
mended.
The village of Priestwick, three miles
north from Ayr, merits notice, as a retired
spot in a sandy soil ; and having a fine sea-
MOFFAT.
137
beach, it has become of late years a place
of considerable resort.
MOFFAT.
The village of Moffat, which is about
fifty-six miles south-west from Edinburgh,
occupies a finely sheltered spot at the head
of a valley on the banks of the Annan, and
is surrounded by hills, some of which are of
considerable elevation. The principal street
is spacious and airy, and the inns and lod-
ging houses are neat and commodious ;
while the surrounding scenery, and salu-
brious air, render it a delightful summer
retirement for invalids.
Moffat has been long celebrated for its
mineral springs. The waters are of two
kinds, sulphureous and chalybeate; the first
of which is about a mile and a half distant
from the village, and the last rises from a
spring five miles distant.
The sulphureous water flows from a spring
on the banks of the small river which gives
name to the village. The spring is suffi-
138
watering places.
ciently copious ; and when the water is first
drawn, it exhibits somewhat of a milkish or
bluish appearance ; the smell is like that of
Harrogate, or St Bernard’s, near Edin-
burgh, the taste is saline, and it sparkles
a little when poured into a glass. Exposed
to the air, the water becomes more turbid,
throws up a thin film of sulphur, and is
then deprived of its most characteristic pro-
perty. Even in close vessels it undergoes
this change, so that it cannot be conveyed
to a great distance, without the loss of one
of its most valuable ingredients.
The whole amount of foreign matter ob-
tained from a wine gallon of Moffat water,
is equal to thirty-six grains of muriate of
soda or common salt, and nineteen cubic
inches of elastic fluids, of which ten cubic
inches appear to be sulphuretted hydrogen
gas, five inches are carbonic acid gas or fixed
air, and the remainder is azotic gas. From
this result the composition of this water is
very simple.
The sensible effects of this water on the
animal economy are chiefly diuretic, and
more rarely laxative. In cutaneous erup-
MOFFAT.
139
tions, the use of this sulphureous water has
been peculiarly successful, and hence has
been regarded as a specific remedy in such
disorders. The external application of the
water, made pretty warm, to the parts af-
fected, is found very beneficial. Great be-
nefit is also obtained from the use of the
water, as a constant dressing, to ill-condi-
tioned or irritable ulcers. In the earlier
stages of scrophulous affections, its good ef-
fects are most conspicuous ; for, by perseve-
ring in its use, the swelling of the glands is
often removed without suppuration. In
stomach or bilious complaints it may be had
recourse to as a safe and efficient remedy.
Near the village of Moffat a weak chaly-
beate spring has been discovered ; but the
Hartfell Spa has its source at the base of a
high mountain of the same name, and at
the distance of five miles ; so that the wa-
ter can seldom be conveniently used as it
issues from the spring. It is therefore con-
veyed to the town in close vessels ; and al-
though it deposits a portion of iron, even
when excluded from the air, yet, retaining
a large portion of the metallic ingredient.
140
WATERING PLACES.
on which its medicinal property depends, it
may be kept for some time without much
diminution of its effects.
When drawn from the fountain, the
Hartfell water is perfectly clear. By boil-
ing and slow evaporation, not more than
five cubic inches of an elastic fluid escapes
from a wine gallon ; and as iron is at the same
time precipitated, the gaseous substance is
probably carbonic acid. The solid contents
are sulphate of iron, 84 grains ; sulphate of
alumina, 12 grains; and oxide of iron, 15
grains.
In some cases the first effects of the
Hartfell Spa water, when taken in too
great quantity, are giddiness and sickness,
and frequently it produces constipation of
the bowels. It has proved highly beneficial
in general debility ; and while it is employ-
ed internally as a medicine, its external ap-
plication to old inveterate sores has been at-
tended with the most salutary effects. The
invalid should begin the use of this water
with small doses ; and it may render it more
agreeable to a delicate stomach to drink it
in a slightly tepid state.
WINDGATE SPA.
141
WINDGATE SPA.
The Windgate Spa is near a village of
tlie same name, and is eight miles from Mor-
peth, and four miles from Rothbury, in the
county of Northumberland. It is situated
on the joint property of Mr Trevelyan of
Netherwitton,aud MrWitham. The spring
issues from strata of coal and limestone, both
of which are wrought in the immediate vi-
cinity. The temperature of the spring was
47°, when the thermometer stood at 45° in
the air ; the water is perfectly transparent
when it issues from the spring ; but as it
flows along, it deposits an ochery sediment.
It sparkles when poured into a glass, has a
strong astringent taste, and with the usual
tests, indicates that it holds in solution sul-
phate of iron, an aluminous salt, and a salt
of lime. By boiling, a portion of carbonic
acid is separated, and oxide of iron is preci-
pitated ; and when slowly evaporated, the
solid contents obtained from a pint of the
water amounted to thirty grains, of which
six grains were found to be sulphate of iron.
WATERING PLACES.
142
fifteen grains sulphate of alumina, and nine
grains ochery matter, or oxide of iron. But
as this analysis was made nearly thirty years
ago, it can scarcely he considered very cor-
rect. Some other earthy salts are clearly
indicated by the preliminary tests.
In all cases of general debility, the Wind-
gate Spa has been found extremely benefi-
cial ; it is not less efficacious in those cuta-
neous eruptions which come under the de-
nomination of scorbutic; and in scrophu-
lous affections the use of this water has been
very successful. As an external application
in inflammation of the eyes, and in resto-
ring; to old and ill-conditioned sores a dis-
position to heal, it has been attended with
equal advantage. The parts affected are
bathed with the water two or three times
a-day, and at the same time, its internal
use in moderate quantities is to be continued.
HARROGATE.
143
HARROGATE.
Harrogate has been long celebrated for
mineral waters. Two villages of this name
are distinguished by the names of High and
Low, and occupy an agreeable situation in a
central district of Yorkshire. The distance
of Harrogate from the city of York is twenty
miles, from Leeds sixteen miles, and from
London 211 miles. The country around is
adorned with many elegant mansions, and
the ancient forest of Knareshorough, which is
now enclosed and cultivated, with the town
of the same name, on a beautiful and ro-
mantic spot, forms part of the scenery, which
cannot fail to strike the eye of the contem-
plative observer.
Four sulphureous springs have been disco-
vered at Harrogate, all of which have their
origin in an extensive hog, in which a mass
of half fluid, black foetid matter, chiefly
composed of decayed vegetables, and in many
places, four or five feet in thickness, rests on
a bed of clay and gravel. When taken from
the wells, the water is perfectly transparent.
144
WATERING PLACES.
Of the four sulphureous springs, one is found
to be much more strongly impregnated with
the sulphuretted hydrogen gas, and is only
used for drinking, while the other three are
devoted to the supply of the baths. But
their general properties are nearly the same.
The water of the old Sulphur well, as it is
called, is supplied by a copious spring, and
is received in a large stone basin, which
is covered 'with a dome, supported by pil-
lars. Like the other springs, the water
is quite clear ; and when taken up, gives
out a few bubbles of air. The smell is foetid
like the washings of a gun, and the taste,
saline, bitter, and nauseous. When the wa-
ter is exposed for some hours to the air, it
is deprived of its transparency and part of
its odour, acquires a greenish hue, and de-
posits a thin film of sulphur on the bottom
and sides of the vessel. The temperature of
the spring is 54° of Fahrenheit.
The sulphureous water of Harrogate, when
bottled at the spring, and completely exclu-
ded from the air, may be kept for many
months unchanged.
The gaseous contents of a wine gallon of
14.
HARROGATE.
145
the water of the sulphur well, according to
one analysis, amount to thirty-four cubic
inches, of which nineteen inches are sulphur-
etted hydrogen gas, eight inches are car-
bonic acid gas, and seven inches are azotic
gas; and the solid contents of the same
quantity of water, amounting to 754 grains,
consist of muriate of soda, sixteen grains ;
muriate of magnesia, ninety- one grains ;
muriate of lime, 13 grains; carbonate of
lime, 18 grains, with a portion of carbonate
and sulphate of magnesia. But according
to another analysis, the quantity of elastic
fluids is only equal to twenty-nine cubic
inches ; and besides the three gaseous sub-
stances already noticed, a portion of carbu-
retted hydrogen gas was detected ; and the
solid contents, consisting of muriate of soda,
muriate of lime, muriate of magnesia, sul-
phate of soda, and carbonate of soda, amount
to 848 grains, of which 730 grains are mu-
riate of soda, or common salt.
The parade of preparation for drinking
the sulphureous water of Harrogate, so for-
mally held out by some authors, is, in few
cases, worthy of regard ; and the only pre-
G
146
WATERING PLACES.
caution to be observed, is to begin the course
with small portions ; for in some cases, per-
haps, when taken in excessive quantity, it
has produced head-ache, or giddiness. Like
other saline waters, it is beneficially em-
ployed in disorders of the stomach, and in
the derangements of the biliary secretions
which so often accompany diseases of the or-
gans of digestion. The use of this water is
also recommended in cases of general debi-
lity, in scrophulous affections, and in differ-
rent visceral obstructions. But the sulphu-
reous water of Harrogate has been found pe-
culiarly useful in diseases of the skin, and
from the numerous cures of this description
which have been effected, has acquired its
highest celebrity. In these cutaneous dis-
orders, the use of the water was formerly li-
mited to external application, and then its
efficacy was sufficiently obvious ; but it is
now employed with the best effects as an in-
ternal medicine. In some old and invete-
rate eruptions, moderate doses of the water,
slightly heated, contribute to keep up the
perspiration which is induced by the warm
sulphureous bath, and in this way restore
the healthy action of the skin.
HARROGATE. 147
The waters of the other sulphureous
springs are employed for bathing, and ac-
commodations are provided for this purpose.
The same precautions that have been sug-
gested for the use of the warm bath in ge-
neral, are to be observed in the use of the
bath with sulphureous water. When it is
required to excite perspiration, the bath is
employed a short time before going to bed,
and the perspiration may be kept up by
means of warm diluent drinks.
Several chalybeate springs have been also
discovered in the vicinity of Harrogate, but
the quantity of iron with which they are im-
pregnated is very small. The saline ingredi-
ents are similar to those of the sulphureous
water, but in smaller proportion. The obser-
vations which have been already made, with
regard to the use of chalybeate waters, ap-
ply equally to the chalybeate water of Har-
rogate. It has been suggested, that some
advantage might be obtained by conjoin-
ing the use of the sulphureous and chalybeate
waters ; and it is recommended to the visi-
tor at Harrogate, to take the water of the old
148
WATERING places.
Sulphur Well in the morning before break-
fast, and the saline chalybeate about mid-
day. It may be worth while, perhaps, to
try this plan ; but its beneficial effects can
only be ascertained by experience.
SCARBOROUGH.
Scarborough is a sea-port town in the
North Riding of Yorkshire, and is forty
miles north from Hull, and 218 miles from
London. It is situated at the bottom of a
lofty cliff, which overlooks a spacious bay,
and is surrounded by precipitous rocks.
Scarborough combines the advantage of
sea-bathing with its mineral chalybeate.
Two mineral springs have been discovered
issuing from the bottom of a high cliff,
about a quarter of a mile distant from the
town. Both of these springs are of a chaly-
beate nature, and although the source of
both is near the same spot, yet the differ-
ence in their composition is considerable.
The one is a simple chalybeate, containing a
small proportion of iron, held in solution by
SCARBOROUGH.
149
means of carbonic acid, without the admix-
ture of any saline ingredient. But the other,
which is distinguished by the name of Scar-
borough Spa, contains, beside the iron, a cer-
tain proportion of alkaline, or earthy salts,
and perhaps of both ; for the taste of this
water at the spring is not only strongly
chalybeate, but brisk and pungent, and at
the same time saline and bitter.
The water of the Scarborough Spa con-
tains a considerable proportion of carbonic
acid, which escapes not only when it is ex-
posed to the air, but even when it is kept
in close vessels, and then it is deprived of
its chalybeate property, by the deposition of
the iron. This water is also described as of
a hard quality, for it curdles soap, thus af-
fording an indication of an earthy salt. The
saline taste probably arises from common
salt, and the bitter taste is to be ascribed to
sulphate or muriate of magnesia. But this
water has not been subjected to any accu-
rate analysis of late years. From a pint of
the water about thirty or thirty-five grains
of solid contents are obtained, two-thirds of
150
WATERING PLACES.
which are found to be a soluble and crystal-
lizable salt.
J he general effects of the Scarborough
Spa, are gently laxative and slightly diure-
tic ; and although these effects are in some
cases scarcely perceptible, it is not to be in-
ferred that the use of this water, when per-
severed in, is not followed with any benefit,
especially when it is accompanied with sea-
bathing.
HOLY WELL.
Holy W ell, a village or town of Flint-
shire, in North Wales, it can scarcely be
doubted, derives its name and origin from
the celebrated spring called St Winifred’s
Well, and on account of the virtue of the
water, was much frequented in former times
by crowds of visitors from the neighbouring
counties. This water seems to have been
in great reputation in the fourteenth cen-
tury, for the Countess of Derby, the mother
of Henry VII., erected an elegant Gothic
chapel over the fountain. This copious
MATLOCK.
151
spring issues with great force from a lime-
stone rock at the foot of a mountain, and
forms a stream of such magnitude as to turn
eleven large water-wheels within the short
distance of a mile.
The water of this celebrated spring is re-
markably transparent, and it is employed by
the inhabitants for all domestic purposes,
thus affording a pretty obvious proof that it
is not strongly impregnated with mineral in-
gredients. It is said, indeed, that it resem-
bles very nearly the Malvern water both in
the nature and quantity of the substances
with which it is impregnated ; the whole
amount of earthy and alkaline salts little ex-
ceeding seven grains in a gallon, so that its
medicinal effects may be expected to be the
same.
MATLOCK.
#
Matlock is a village in the hilly part
of Derbyshire, and has been long admired
lor its picturesque scenery. It is seventeen
miles distant from Derbv, and 143 miles
152
WATERING PLACES.
from London. The springs, which first at-
tracted notice about the end of the 17th
century, rise from a lime-stone rock near the
river Derwent, and they possess the pro-
perty of a petrifying water ; for it forms a
calcareous covering on vegetables and other
objects with which it comes in contact. The
temperature of some of these springs is high-
er than the natural temperature of the ordi-
nary springs at that elevation, and hence
they come under the appellation of tepid or
thermal waters. The source of the tepid
waters, the temperature of which is about
68°, is from 50 to 80 feet above the level
of the Derwent.
The water of Matlock is perfectly clear,
curdles soap in consequence of the earthy
matter, and contains a small portion of com-
mon salt, but has no sensible saline taste,
so that its medicinal effects cannot be ex-
pected to be greater than those of pure wa-
ter. But on account of the temperature of
the water, it is advantageously employed as
a tepid bath. Several of these baths have
been constructed about 22 feet in length,
and 1 5 feet in width ; and one of still great-
BUXTON.
153
er magnitude, is 30 feet long and 18 feet
wide. The rules and precautions already
detailed, with regard to the use ot the cold
bath, are here equally applicable.
BUXTON.
Buxton is situated on the north-western
side of Derbyshire, and not far distant from
the borders of Cheshire. It stands in a nar-
row valley, which is surrounded on all sides
by lofty hills. This elevated district, which
is called the Peak-hundred, presents a bleak
and barren aspect, excepting in the valleys,
which are fertile and beautiful. The spa-
cious caverns, which have been formed in
the lime-stone, which is the prevailing rock
of the country, have been long the admira-
tion of travellers, and are emphatically de-
nominated the Wonders of the Peak.
The waters of Buxton have been long in
great repute, although it cannot boast of a
very genial climate, and even in summer,
few days elapse without rain ; but the dry-
ness of the soil, and the inequality of the
154
watering places.
ground, which permits the frequent showers
to he rapidly carried off, allows visitors to
take the advantage of being out of doors
during the shortest interval of clear wea-
ther. In no place has the hand of indus-
try and cultivation succeeded better than in
the improvements which have been made on
this village, in the excellence of the roads,
and the beauty of the buildings, and parti-
cularly the magnificent Crescent which has
arisen under the auspices of the noble pro-
prietor, affording the most elegant accom-
modation to those who visit Buxton.
The water of St Anne’s well, as it rises
through the fissures of the rock, is at the
temperature of 82°; but' when it is collect-
ed in the basin, it falls to 77° ; it is perfectly
transparent, and has scarcely any perceptible
taste different from common spring water.
A wine gallon evaporated to dryness affords
fifteen grains of solid contents, of which ten
grains are carbonate of lime, and the re-
mainder muriate of soda or common salt,
and muriate of magnesia, but chiefly the
first.
From the small proportion of saline in-
BUXTON.
155
gredients with which this water is impreg-
nated, its medicinal effects cannot be very
powerful ; and yet it is said that it produces
in some patients headache and slight giddi-
ness. These effects probably are to be as-
cribed to the quantity of the water swallow-
ed, rather than to its quality ; and particu-
larly when it is drunk by those who have
not been accustomed to take pure water of
any kind into the stomach. No danger of
such consequences need be apprehended if
the course of drinking commence with small
doses at proper intervals. Perhaps it may
be a useful precaution to allow the tempera*
ture to be somewhat reduced before using
the waters. But the formal preparation re-
commended by some authors seems to be al-
together unnecessary. Buxton water has
proved highly beneficial in the deranged
state of the digestive organs occasioned by
previous intemperance ; and it is equally
efficacious in similar disorders arising from
gouty and rheumatic affections.
The baths of Buxton are on a splendid
plan. Three baths, two of which are pub-
lic, and one is private, are appropriated to
156
WATERING PLACES.
gentlemen ; they are from twenty-five feet
to twenty feet in length, and from six to
eighteen feet in breadth. Two baths, a
public and private one, are constructed for
the use of ladies, and nearly on the same
grand scale. Beside the baths now men-
tioned, a charity bath is reserved for the pa-
tients at the Infirmary ; and the visitors at
Buxton have the farther accommodation of
marble baths for warm bathing, a vapour
bath and a cold bath. The temperature of
the water employed in the tepid baths varies
from 82° to 81°, as they are supplied direct-
ly from the spring or from the reservoir ;
and the temperature of the cold bath is
about 60°.
The tepid bath is below the temperature
of the human body ; a slight shock is felt on
the first immersion, but it is immediately
followed by an agreeable sensation over the
whole body. These effects are peculiarly be-
neficial to persons of a delicate constitution,
or of an irritable habit. The small degree
of reaction excited by the difference of tem-
perature is regarded as a salutary effort of
the system to restore the vigour of parts
BUXTON.
157
which have been weakened by disease ; and
hence the cases in which the Buxton bath
has been found most useful, are those in
which diminished action, and sometimes
even some deficiency of sensation, have af-
fected particular limbs, as the consequence
of violent inflammation, or external injury.
In the various forms of chronic rheumatism
which succeed the acute species of that dis-
ease, and when the inflammation has been
fixed in moving parts, the most essential
relief has been derived from the Buxton
bath. By perseverance in its use, the power
and vigour of the parts affected have been
so far restored as to allow the invalid to have
recourse to sea-bathing, or the ordinary cold
bath.
The most proper time for using the Bux-
ton bath is before breakfast, excepting in
those cases where delicacy of constitution for-
bids the invalid to leave his apartments at
so early an hour. At the commencement of
a course of bathing, it is very properly recom-
mended, that the time of remaining in the
bath should not exceed a minute or two ;
and it can scarcely be doubted, that the use
158
watering places.
of gentle friction shall prove beneficial, es-
pecially in stiffness of the joints, or in the
diminished power of muscular action of any
of the limbs.
Those who visit Buxton have also the
advantage of a weak chalybeate spring in
its immediate vicinity ; the alternate use of
which, with the other water, might perhaps
be followed, in many cases, with very salu-
tary effects.
LEAMINGTON PRIORS.
Leamington is two miles to the east-
ward of the city of Warwick, and ninety
miles from London. It derives its name
from the Learn, a small rivulet which flows
near it. The plain of Warwick, in which
it is placed, is covered with the same red
marl and gypsum that forms the repository
of the salt mines of Cheshire; and in this bed
are to be traced the saline ingredients with
which the waters of Leamington Priors are
impregnated.
To those who admire the beauties of na-
LEAMINGTON PRIORS.
159
ture, or who delight to dwell on objects
that recal the memory of past events, or
sooth the mind with agreeable recollections,
the vicinity of Leamington holds out nu-
merous attractions, in the magnificent pile
of Warwick Castle, in the picturesque sce-
nery of Guy’s Cliff, and in the mouldering
remains of Kenilworth Castle, which the
genius of a modern writer, in a romance of
the same name, has raised from its ruins, and
in his inimitable description has decorated
with all the splendour of a former age ; nor
will it be a small gratification to reflect, that
the birth-place of Shakspeare, at Stratford
upon Avon, is at no great distance, and
that an opportunity is offered of contem-
plating the spot where the ashes of the im-
mortal bard repose.
The springs of Leamington were not un-
known in the 16’th century, although it was
not till the close of the 18th century that
they acquired much celebrity ; since which
time, the village, formerly an obscure ham-
let, has assumed all the elegance and neat-
ness of a modern town.
T he waters of Leamington are obtained
160 WATERING PLACES.
from nine different springs, all of which
are impregnated with the same saline ingre-
dients ; namely, muriates of soda, of lime,
and of magnesia, and sulphate of soda ; but
varying in the proportions of these ingre-
dients. The whole amount of the saline in-
gredients of the different springs varies from
27 grains to 110 grains in an English pint
of water. The water of some of these springs
is impregnated with sulphuretted hydrogen
gas, and in all of them a slight trace of iron
is detected. The saline water at the Royal
pump-room contains 110 grains in the pint,
but the saline contents of the sulphureous
water at the same place, amount to only about
S8 grains. A pint of the water from Lord
Aylesford’s spring yields about 78 grains ;
the same quantity from Mrs Smith’s spring
affords 76 grains ; from Mr Robins’s spring,
about 100 grains; from Mr Wise’s spring,
90 grains ; and from the three urns at the
Marble Bath pump-room, from 27 to 38
grains.
From the composition of these waters,
they are to be considered as properly belong-
ing to the saline class. They are deprived
LEAMINGTON PRIORS. l6l
entirely of their chalybeate property by ex-
posure to the air, and by the same treatment
the sulphuretted hydrogen gas escapes ; so
that if any benefit is to be expected from
these waters, on account of their chalybeate
or sulphureous property, they must be taken
at the spring.
It may perhaps be considered of no small
advantage to those who visit Leamington,
to have it in their power to make a selection
of mineral waters of so much difference in
strength, and thus to give the preference to
what shall appear most suitable to the par-
ticular case. It is scarcely necessary to men-
tion, that of the stronger kinds a small
quantity only should be taken at first ; and
it is equally unnecessary to add, that these
waters maybe expected to prove beneficial in
all those diseases for which the use of such
waters is commonly recommended, and has
been already noticed.
The baths at Leamington are fitted up
with the utmost neatness and elegance, and
every accommodation that could be desired
is provided for cold and warm bathing.
162
WATERING PLACES.
MALVERN.
The village of Great Malvern, which is
situated on the east side of the extensive
and lofty range of hills from which it de-
rives its name, is eight miles distant from
the city of Worcester, and 120 miles from
London. From the summit of this range,
on one side, a diversified prospect of corn
fields, orchards, and hop plantations, pre-
sents itself ; and on the other side, the dis-
tant view is terminated by the mountains of
Wales. The pure air and retired situation
of Malvern, are no small recommendation
as a watering-place.
The spring called St Anne’s Well is at
a short distance from the village of Great
Malvern. The water is remarkably pure,
and is altogether destitute of taste ; and in-
deed this might be expected, from the small
quantity of saline ingredients with which it
is impregnated. According to one analysis,
the amount of solid contents obtained from
a gallon of this water, is about seven grains,
consisting of carbonate of soda, sulphate of
MALVERN.
163
soda, and a very small proportion of the mu-
riates of lime and of magnesia ; and accord-
ing to another analysis, the whole amount
of solid contents is about five grains and a
half, composed chiefly of sulphate of soda,
and muriate of lime, with some carbonate of
lime.
The water of the Holy Well issues from
a spring between the villages of Great and
Little Malvern, and, in its chemical proper-
ties, approaches very nearly to the water of
St Anne’s Well.
From the small proportion of saline in-
gredients with which it is impregnated, it
is scarcely to be expected that the water of
Malvern should have any remarkable effect,
either when applied externally, or when em-
ployed as an internal medicine ; and yet, in
both ways, the use of this water has been
attended with considerable benefit. It was
first brought into notice as an external ap-
plication, and has been found efficacious in
inveterate sores, which are the consequence
of a scrophulous habit of body, by modera-
ting the discharge, and promoting the heal-
ing process, — in that variety of inflamma-
164
WATERING PLACES.
tion of the eyes which is induced by the
same disease, — and in cutaneous eruptions,
where the skin is hot and dry, by relieving
the irritation and itching. The sensible ef-
fects of the Malvern water, when used in-
ternally, are diuretic. In many cases it has
been found useful in painful affections of the
urinary organs ; it moderates the violence
of hectic fever, produced by irritating sores ;
and, with the aid of pure air, and gentle and
regular exercise, improves the appetite, in-
vigorates the spirits, and confirms the ge-
neral health.
CHELTENHAM.
Cheltenham is a small town in Glou-
cestershire, which has acquired great cele-
brity on account of its mineral waters. The
distance from London is ninety-four miles ;
from Bath and Bristol, forty-four miles ;
and from the city of Gloucester, nine miles.
The surrounding districts, in the vale of
Gloucester, are fertile, and well cultivated,
embellished with fine villages and ex ten-
CHELTENHAM.
165
sive orchards, and watered by the Severn,
winding its course along richly wooded
banks. In the midst of this beautiful scen-
ery, Cheltenham has risen up, and now of-
fers to the invalid who seeks health, as well
as to those who visit it for amusement,
every accommodation and enjoyment that
could be desired, in elegant hotels, and
lodging-houses, in a theatre, and in assem-
bly-rooms.
The Old W ell, or original spa, which is at
a short distance from the town, was disco-
vered about one hundred years ago. The
waters of this spring, of which several varie-
ties are described, belong to the saline class.
The amount of the ingredients of which
they are composed varies from 67 to 83
grains, in an English pint of the water. In
some of these varieties muriate of soda is in
largest proportion; in others, sulphate of
soda is the prevailing ingredient ; and in all
of them the proportion of muriate of lime,
and muriate of magnesia is small. A very
minute portion of iron is also detected.
Montpellier Spa, or Thompson’s Wells,
discovered about 1806, contain the same in-
166
WATERING PLACES.
gredients, and nearly the same amount and
proportions. A slight impregnation of iron
is also observed in this water, which is by
no means entitled to the name of strong
chalybeate saline water.
The waters of the Sherborne Spa have
also the same character with regard to their
saline ingredients ; but the whole solid con-
tents obtained from an English pint of the
water described as sulphureous and chaly-
beate, is not quite nine grains. Another
water called the magnesian water, affords
scarcely six grains ; but the water under the
appellation of pure saline, contains more
than 84 grains of saline matter, of which
nearly 73 grains are common salt.
The high celebrity which the waters of
Cheltenham have obtained seems to have
suggested the preparation of the salts with
which they are impregnated in a solid form,
by evaporating the water of the springs;
and to have led to the artificial imitation of
these salts, not only on the spot, but in dif-
ferent parts of the kingdom. One of these
imitations consists chiefly of crystals, of sul-
phate of soda, or glauber salt, and is called
CHELTENHAM.
167
real Cheltenham salt ; the same salt, being
deprived of its water of crystallization, or in
the state of efflorescence, is in the form of
fine powder ; and a third kind is called
magnesian salts, from having a portion of
sulphate of magnesia added to the glauber
salt.
Cheltenham has been long resorted to by
those who have lived in Tropical regions,
and in whom a general state of relaxation,
and impaired action of the digestive or-
gans prevail. In an irritable state of the
stomach, it is obvious, that a small quan-
tity of the water should be taken at first,
and gradually increased, till it produce a
laxative effect. In a disordered state of the
liver, when the diminished secretion of bile
induces a costive habit of body, the use of
these waters, when properly regulated, is
found highly beneficial. In irritable and fe-
verish habits, accompanied with thirst, and
general languor, which seem to be the con-
sequence of some local and visceral affec-
tion, less advantage is to be expected from
the waters of Cheltenham ; but in cases of
jaundice, when fullness, distention, and a
168
watering places.
sense of heat prevail, their good effects are
considerable. The saline waters of Chel-
tenham have also proved efficacious in va-
rious diseases of the skin, particularly in ery-
sipelatous affections.
Two chalybeate springs have been disco-
vered at Cheltenham, containing, besides
the impregnation of iron, a portion of alka-
line and earthy salts ; but, although none
of these springs possesses any great strength,
it has been properly suggested, that the in-
valid, after the use of the saline water, may
have recourse to the chalybeate, on account
of its tonic effect, with considerable advan-
tage.
Those who visit Cheltenham are provi-
ded with most elegant accommodation for
enjoying every kind of warm and cold bath-
ing.
BATH.
Bath, which, in its modern state, is dig-
nified with the appellation of The Pride of
England, and The Admiration of Foreign-
ers, and, on account of its spacious squares,
12
BATH.
169
elegant streets, and magnificent buildings,
seems well entitled to this distinction, is 107
miles distant from London, and about twelve
miles from Bristol. It stands on the banks
of the Avon, in a deep narrow valley, which
is well sheltered by the range of hills on all
sides, excepting to the north-west, where
the vale expands into rich meadows. The
various names, which, at different times,
have been given to Bath, are obviously de-
rived from the quality or uses of its copious
mineral springs ; and hence the “ Hot Wa-
ters” of Ptolemy, “ Waters of the Sun”
of the Romans, the “ City of Baths” of
the Britons, and the “ City of Valetudina-
rians” of the Saxons.
Attracted, probably, by its warm springs,
the luxurious Romans selected Bath as a
favourite residence, and made it one of their
chief towns, during their stay in Britain.
It was strongly fortified, and adorned with
temples, baths, and other public edifices of
the most magnificent description. But two
hundred years had scarcely elapsed from the
departure of the Romans, when the remains
of this splendour could only be traced in the
fragments of columns, sculptures, and other
H
170
WATERING PLACES.
architectural decorations, inserted into the
walls, which the invading Saxons had con-
structed for their own defence ; and the re-
mains of an elegant structure, destined to
the purpose of a sudatory or vapour hath,
was discovered in 1755, about twenty feet
below the surface.
Bath is one of the greatest resorts of fa-
shionable company in the kingdom. The
best and most elegant accommodations are
provided for those who seek health, or pur-
sue pleasure. The vicinity affords the most
delightful walks and rides, and the amuse-
ments, for which every conveniency is sup-
plied, are regulated and conducted accord-
ing to the most polished forms of etiquette.
The Bath waters arise from three copious
springs, at the lower part of the town, and
not far distant from each other.; and so abun-
dant is the supply, that the large baths are
filled every evening with fresh water.
When the Bath water is first drawn, it is
transparent and colourless, but becomes tur-
bid by exposure to the air for a few hours,
and deposits an ochery sediment. It has
no smell, but is astringent to the taste when
13
BATH.
171
hot from the pump ; but when the water
cools, it is deprived of this taste, and then
leaves on the tongue only a slight saline im-
pression. The temperature of the Hot hath
is 117°, of the King’s bath, 114°, and of the
Cross bath, 109° ; but then it is to be under-
stood of the water fresh drawn from the
pump ; for, when it is exposed in the spa-
cious baths, it is soon deprived of a part of
its heat.
The solid contents obtained from an Eng-
lish pint of the Bath water amount to about
14 or 15 grains, two- thirds of which consist
of sulphate of lime, and the remainder is
composed of muriate of lime and muriate
of magnesia, with a small proportion of sul-
phate of soda, silica, and oxide of iron. It
contains also about one cubic inch of carbo-
nic acid in the same quantity of water.
The internal use of the Bath water is re-
commended in those disorders in which a
deficiency of nervous energy is prevalent, in
visceral obstructions, and especially in affec-
tions of the liver, which are indicated by
hardness and distension, and in the conse-
quent deranged condition of the digestive
172
WATERING PLACES.
organs, when symptoms of jaundice make
their appearance.
An agreeable sensation of heat of the
stomach, succeeded by an increase of appe-
tite, and a greater flow of spirits, and a
speedy diuretic effect, are regarded as the
sure indications of the beneficial influence
of the Bath water on the system ; hut if its
use be followed by a sense of weight in the
stomach, sickness, headache, thirst, parched
tongue, and dry skin, it must be relinquish-
ed for the time.
The quantity of water to be taken daily,
it is obvious must be in a great measure re-
gulated by the constitution of the patient.
In some cases, an English pint divided into
three portions, two of which are swallowed
at intervals before breakfast, and the third
afterwards, is recommended ; and in other
cases, a pint and a half, or two pints, di-
vided and drunk in the same way, are pre-
scribed. But the safest practice, at least
with delicate or irritable habits, is to begin
the course with small doses.
As the temperature of the Bath waters is
so much higher than that of the human bo-
BATH.
173
dy, it is natural to expect that the effect
should be greater than the ordinary warm
bath. It seems necessary, therefore, to watch
its effects with more attention, especially
when the hot bath is employed, which is
eight or ten degrees higher than the tem-
perature of the body. In many cases it seems
extremely probable, that the water heated
so many degrees above the temperature of
the body, may produce very beneficial effects;
but other cases may occur, in which this in-
creased temperature may prove injurious.
Should headache, or any degree of giddi-
ness, be the consequence of using the warm
bath, to persons of a feeble habit of body, it
• must be abandoned for the time ; and per-
haps it might be a judicious plan to begin
with the Cross bath, the temperature of
which approaches nearly to that of the hu-
man body ; then to use for some time the
King’s bath, the temperature of which is a
little higher ; and last of all to employ the
Hot bath.
After all that has been said by medical
writers, it seems doubtful whether any pe-
culiar benefit is to be ascribed to the waters
174
WATERING PLACES.
of Bath, different from what may be expect-
ed from pure water raised to the same tem-
perature. The whole effect, it is likely, de-
pends on the heat ; but as the uniformity of
temperature is kept up during the whole
time of immersion, in consequence of the
great body of water, some advantage is gain-
ed from this circumstance.
That the reader may have some notion of
the grand scale on which these baths are
constructed, it may be worth while to no-
tice, that the King’s bath, which is about 65
feet in length, and 40 feet in breadth, con-
tains more than 346 tons of water. The
Queen’s bath, which is separated from the
King’s by an arch, is about 25 feet square ;
the Hot bath is of an octagonal form, with a
diameter of 21 feet; and the Cross bath is
somewhat larger than the hot bath, and of
an irregular form. The depth of each of
these baths is about four and a half feet.
Beside the public baths now noticed, private
baths have been constructed, which, as well
as the former, belong to the corporation of
the city. A similar establishment of private
baths, known by the name of the Kingston
BATH.
175
Baths, has been formed by a private indivi-
dual.
The warm bath is generally employed in
the morning at this place ; and where it is
found to answer, this practice may be con-
tinued ; but as this time may be inconve-
nient for many persons, it will be found
equally beneficial two or three hours before
dinner. The time of immersion, which is
from ten minutes to half an hour, should be
regulated by the feelings of the patient,
who should not remain a moment longer in
the bath, after experiencing any degree of
faintness or lassitude.
To what has been already said of the dis-
eases in which warm bathing is found bene-
ficial, it is unnecessary to add any thing, as
the same remarks are equally applicable to
the use of the Bath waters for a similar pur-
pose.
Topical warm bathing, called dry-pump-
ing, because the water is applied to one part
of the body, while the rest is kept dry, is
much employed at Bath, and often proves a
powerful remedy. By this mode of applica-
tion the water is at its highest temperature,
176
WATERING PLACES.
because it comes immediately from the
source, and is directed by the pump to the
part affected. The duration of the applica-
tion of the water in this way, is measured by
the number of strokes of the pump, of which
from 50 to 100 are used at one time.
BRISTOL.
The celebrated spring called the Hot
Well of Bristol, has its source at the bot-
tom of St Vincent’s rock, a lofty limestone
cliff on the banks of the Avon, about a mile
below the city, and four miles from the Bris-
tol channel. The banks of the Avon abound
with beautiful scenery, and the neighbour-
ing hills, where the air is pure and salubri-
ous, afford the most delightful and exten-
sive prospects.
The water of the Hot Well rises from the
bottom of the rock so copiously as to dis-
charge about forty gallons in a minute. The
water is perfectly transparent, and sparkles
when poured into glass. The taste is agree-
able, and is not different from that of pure wa-
BRISTOL.
177
ter, a certain indication that the foreign mat-
ter with which it is impregnated is small in
quantity. The temperature of the spring is
about 74°, and it continues nearly at the
same point throughout the year. From this
increase of temperature above that of other
natural springs in the vicinity, this spring
has derived the name of Hot Well. Du-
ring spring tides, which arise to a great
height in the Severn and Avon, the water
of the Hot Well becomes turbid, although
its source is considerably higher than the
surface of the water in the river. This change
is probably owing to the regurgitation of
some other spring, by which the course of
its waters, when obstructed by the rise of the
waters in the river, is directed to the Hot
Well.
The solid contents of the water of the
Hot Well have been variously estimated by
different chemists from forty- seven grains
to fifty-seven grains in the gallon, of which
seven grains are muriate of magnesia, four
grains are muriate of soda, eleven grains are
sulphate of soda, nearly twelve grains are
17S
WATERING PLACES.
sulphate of lime, and thirteen grains are car-
bonate of lime. The gallon of water affords
also thirty-three cubic inches of an elastic
fluid, of which thirty inches are carbonic acid
gas, and the remainder common air. The
solid ingredients scarcely bring the Bristol
Hot Well water under the denomination of
hard water ; and the proportion of carbonic
acid gas can scarcely entitle it to the name
of an acidulous water.
A gentle glow in the stomach is the first
sensible effect produced by drinking the
Hot Well water fresh from the spring ;
but sometimes it is said a slight degree of
head-ache and giddiness succeeds. When
its use is persevered in, it is found in many
cases to be diuretic, while, at the same time,
it keeps the skin soft and moist. Sometimes
it has a tendency to produce constipation of
the bowels, which requires to be counteract-
ed by some mild aperient medicine.
To those who begin a course of the Hot
Well water, it is recommended to take
the first dose, which varies from a quarter
to half a pint, as early in the morning as
may be convenient ; after half an hour’s mo-
BRISTOL.
179
derate exercise, another glass is taken ; and
in the course of the forenoon two more glasses,
with a similar interval, are swallowed. Per-
haps some of the effects of the Bristol wa-
ter are to be ascribed to its increased tem-
perature. On this account, it should be used
as it issues from the spring, for by keeping,
or carriage to any distance, it would he di-
minished in temperature, and at the same
time would he deprived of the greater part
of its carbonic acid gas.
The water of Bristol Hot Well has acqui-
red great celebrity in the cure of many dis-
eases ; and particularly in those bilious or
stomach complaints, and general debility, to
which Europeans are subject who have long
resided in warm climates. Much has been
attributed to the use of this water in the
cure of consumption ; but although it has
probably acquired a higher reputation than
what it is entitled to, as some medical writers
have supposed, it seems not improbable, that
along with the mild climate, it may have a
beneficial influence in relieving some of the
symptoms in the early stages of this disease ;
and indeed it is said to be particularly effi-
180
WATERING PLACES.
cacious in moderating the thirst, the burn-
ing heat of the hands and feet, and the par-
tial night sweats.
TUNBRIDGE.
Tunbridge Wells, which is a populous
village in the county of Kent, and about thir-
ty-six miles south from London, is indebted
for its origin and name to the mineral springs
in the vicinity. Tunbridge has the advan-
tage of a pure and salubrious air. The
neighbourhood is remarkable for picturesque
and striking scenery, and many elegant
seats adorn the rising grounds. Every kind
of accommodation for the pleasure or com-
fort of visitors is provided, whether in ta-
verns, hotels, or private lodging-houses ;
in the amusement of the ball-room, or in
conversation or reading in the coffee-house
or library.
The trade of Tunbridge Wells, having a
similar origin with that of the Spa in Ger-
many, consists chiefly in the manufacture of
various toys, well known by the name of
TUNBRIDGE.
18L
Tunbridge ware, including tea-chests, dress-
ing-boxes, snuff-boxes, and numerous toys
for children, made of plum-tree, yew, syca-
more, beech, and holly.
The discovery of the mineral water of
Tunbridge is dated early in the 17th cen-
tury. The waters had acquired so much ce-
lebrity in the time of Charles I. that his
queen Henrietta Maria spent six weeks at
this place on account of her health ; and as
no house was near, she and her attendants
lived in tents, which were pitched upon Bi-
shop’s Down ; and in honour of her majes-
ty’s visit, the wells were called Queen Ma-
ry's Wells; a name which has since been
changed to Tunbridge Wells, from the
neighbouring village.
The waters of Tunbridge are of a chaly-
beate nature, and several springs have been
discovered ; but one only is now in use, the
water of which is received into a capacious
marble basin, and affords an abundant sup-
ply to the numerous visitors who annually
resort to this place. The temperature of the
water, as it issues from the springs, is about
50°, at all seasons of the year. When taken
182
watering places.
up from the spring, it is perfectly colour-
less and transparent ; it has no perceptible
smell, and has only a slight astringent taste.
When the water is exposed for some hours
to the air, minute bubbles are seen on the
sides of the vessel ; the liquid becomes tur-
bid ; a yellowish iridescent pellicle forms
on the surface ; and in 24 hours, it is en-
tirely deprived of its chalybeate properties,
while a brownish sediment is produced.
The solid contents of a gallon of Tun-
bridge water, according to one analysis,
amount only to five grains, and the elastic
fluids given out by boiling the same quan-
tity of water, are equal to sixteen cubic
inches, of which ten inches are carbonic
acid gas, four inches azotic gas, and the re-
mainder atmospherical air. But, according
to another analysis, thirteen cubic inches of
gaseous matter were obtained from a gallon
of the water, and the solid contents exceed-
ed seven and a half grains, of which the
chief ingredients are muriate of soda, muri-
ate of lime, sulphate of soda, and oxide of
iron, with a small proportion of muriate of
magnesia, and of carbonate of lime ; and, it
TUNBRIDGE.
183
is saicl, with some traces of magnesia. The
quantity of iron at the different springs of
Tunbridge is different; and in the same
spring, at different seasons of the year, a si-
milar diversity in the proportion of the iron
is observed. This difference, it is obvious,
arises from the mineral ingredients being
more or less diluted by an increased flow of
the water from the fountain.
Although the waters of Tunbridge hold
in solution a very small proportion of foreign
ingredients, yet they have acquired, and per-
haps deservedly, a high degree of celebrity
in the cure of many diseases. Much of the
virtue of the Tunbridge chalybeate is ascri-
bed to the simplicity of its composition, which
it is supposed amply compensates for its
weak impregnation ; and it is alleged that
the iron, in a state of solution, may be con-
veyed into the circulation, for no other rea-
son than that the water may be heated to the
temperature of 140° out of the body, with-
out decomposition. But, in this reasoning,
it is forgotten that a series of changes, in-
dependent of heat, is going on in the sto-
mach.
184
WATERING PLACES.
The effects of these waters, when they
prove salutary, are an increased circulation,
followed by an agreeable glow over the bo-
dy, and an improvement of the appetite.
These effects are said to be most striking in
irritable and sanguine habits, and even in
some, at the commencement of a course, nau-
sea and slight giddiness are induced ; but it
seems not improbable that these symptoms
might be traced to some other cause. The
diuretic effect of these waters is considered
as affording the most favourable proof of
their salutary influence ; and when they are
used with free and regular exercise, they have
a tendency to induce a gentle perspiration.
The waters of Tunbridge are found to be
peculiarly beneficial in impaired appetite,
irregular action of the digestive organs, and
in those chronic complaints which, without
any local affection, are accompanied with ge-
neral debility.
The dose of Tunbridge water usually pre-
scribed, is from one English pint to three
quarters of a pint, according to the age and
constitution of the patient. The first dose
is taken an hour before breakfast, and one or
TUNBRIDGE.
185
two others in the course of the forenoon, so
that the whole quantity to he used for the
day, may he taken two or three hours be-
fore dinner.
It has been observed, that Tunbridge wa-
ter, and no doubt others of a similar charac-
ter, lose their effect when continued for some
time. In such cases, it might be a useful
practice to intermit the drinking for a few
days, after which it may be expected the
same effects as at first will be repeated.
To some persons of a delicate constitution,
the water, as it is fresh drawn from the foun-
tain, is too cold for the stomach, and some-
times occasions nausea or sickness. These
unpleasant effects are obviated by slightly
heating it, which is conveniently done by
immersing a bottle of the water, well cork-
ed, in hot water, that the escape of the car-
bonic acid gas may be prevented. In many
cases it has been suggested, that the occa-
sional use of the warm bath may prove high-
ly beneficial during a course of these mine-
ral waters.
No fixed period can be assigned for the
duration of a course of the Tunbridge wa-
186
WATERING PLACES.
ter, although it is usual to prescribe from
one to two months for this purpose ; but be-
fore coming to a decision on this point, va-
rious circumstances, some of which arescarce-
ly appreciable, must be considered.
BRIGHTON.
The situation of Brighton, which is fine-
ly sheltered by rising grounds on the north
and north-east, has, no doubt, in some de-
gree, contributed to render it a fashionable
resort for sea-bathing. It is fifty-five miles
distant from London ; and, within the last
fifty years, has risen from the condition of a
fishing village, to the rank of a fine town.
For this remarkable change, it is greatly
indebted to the frequent visits of his present
majesty, with whom it has become a favour-
ite residence. This alone must attract the
most distinguished company of the king-
dom, for whose accommodation and amuse-
ment, lodging houses, assembly-rooms, pub-
lic libraries, and a theatre, have been erect-
ed on elegant and splendid plans. Baths
BRIGHTON.
187
of every description, as hot, cold, and va-
pour of salt and fresh water, have been com-
modiously fitted up ; and the chalybeate
spring, near the town, holds out another ad-
vantage to the invalid who visits Brighton.
The chalybeate spring, which is called
the Wick, rises from the declivity of a small
eminence, situated about half a mile to the
westward of Brighton. The prevailing rocks
in the immediate vicinity are chiefly lime-
stone ; but the soil from which the water
rises is almost entirely of clay. A small
building has been erected over the spot
from which the spring issues, and the water
JL *— *
is received into a basin of Portland stone,
which contains only a few gallons ; but,
when it is emptied, soon fills again. The
spring is always copious, and appears not to
vary in its sensible qualities. When the
water remains at rest for some time, a thin
iridescent pellicle appears on the surface,
and sometimes, also, a kind of yellowish
scum, in irregular patches. When the
thermometer stood, in the air, at 68°, the
temperature of the spring was found to be
at 54°.
188
WATERING PLACES.
When this water is taken up quite fresh,
it has a peculiar faint smell, with a strong
chalybeate taste. When it remains for a
night in a vessel, the greatest part of the
scum falls down, and forms a yellowish
ochery sediment ; and even in a close ves-
sel, excluded from the air, the same effects
follow in the course of a few weeks.
The solid contents obtained from an
English pint of the Brighton chalybeate,
amounted to eight and a half grains, com-
posed of nearly two grains of sulphate of
iron, four grains of sulphate of lime, one
and a half grains of muriate of soda, with a
small proportion of muriate of magnesia, and
siliceous earth.
The chalybeate water of Brighton must,
no doubt, prove beneficial in all those dis-
eases which require tonic remedies, and
which have been already noticed, in treat-
ing of similar waters, as the Hartfell, and
Windgate Spa. It has been observed, by
some of the practitioners on the spot, who
have recommended this water, that it is apt
to occasion, in some individuals, a degree
of nausea, and a sense of weight in the sto-
ISLE OF WIGHT.
189
mach, when it is taken cold ; but when
it is swallowed moderately warm, no such
effects follow. In this respect, the Brighton
chalybeate has the advantage of the Tun-
bridge water, because it may be heated with-
out any material change in its composition.
ISLE OF WIGHT.
The pure air and genial climate of the
Isle of Wight have long rendered it a fa-
vourable retirement for sea-bathing ; and
the diversified surface, rich soil, and luxu-
riant vegetation, have procured for it the
appellation of The Garden of England. At
the towns of Ryde and Cowes, which are
annually crowded with strangers, every ac-
commodation is provided for warm and cold
bathing. The rides and walks are highly
romantic, the scenery truly picturesque, and,
to those who are within reach of this island,
no spot holds out more attractions as a wa-
tering place. But, besides the advantage of
sea-bathing, a powerful aluminous chaly-
beate spring has been discovered, and will,
190
WATERING PLACES.
perhaps, render the Isle of Wight a still
more attractive place of residence for inva-
lids.
The spring is situated on the south-west
coast of the island, and in a romantic spot,
about two miles to the westward of the vil-
lage of Niton. The water flows from a bed
of loose quartzose sandstone, containing
oxide of iron. The temperature was found
to be 51°, when that of the atmosphere was
48°. When the water issues from the
spring, it is perfectly transparent, and it
remains unchanged for any length of time
if it be put up and preserved in well closed
vessels ; but when exposed to the air, red-
dish flakes are soon separated, partly sub-
siding, and partly adhering to the inside of
the vessel. It has the peculiar smell of
chalybeate waters, and beside an astringent
and harsh taste, it is somewhat sweetish,
arising from the sulphate of iron, and sul-
phate of alumina. By boiling, carbonic acid
gas is given out in the proportion of one
hundredth part of the bulk of the water.
In ascertaining the quantity of solid con-
tents obtained from this chalybeate water,
ISLE OF WIGHT.
191
the amount varied in different specimens
from sixty- three to ninety-two grains in the
English pint of sixteen ounces. But the
average amount of different trials gives
eighty and a half grains of solid ingredients
in each pint of the water, consisting of forty-
one grains of sulphate of iron, thirty-one
grains of sulphate of alumina, ten grains of
sulphate of lime, three grains of sulphate of
magnesia, sixteen grains of sulphate of soda,
and four grains of muriate of soda, with a
slight trace of siliceous earth.
This is the strongest of the mineral wa-
ters belonging to the chalybeate class that
has yet been discovered in Britain, and per-
haps its medicinal effects may be found too
powerful for most constitutions ; so that it
may be necessary, especially at the com-
mencement, to employ it either in very small
quantity, or in a diluted state.
This chalybeate water was administered
to the sick of the troops at the depot in the
Isle of Wight, in cases of continued and
intermittent fevers, pulmonary complaints,
chronic dysentery, and rheumatism, and it
was observed to have a rapid effect on the ap-
WATERING PLACES.
192
*
petite and spirits. The commencement of
the course was generally preceded by a dose
of Epsom salts ; and in those of irritable ha-
bits, the water was diluted, and slightly
heated. The quantity prescribed was at first
only two ounces, or a small wine-glass full,
to which some aromatic wTas added ; and this
dose was repeated three times a-day at least.
It has been suggested, that in obstinate
agues, and in many other complaints where
great debility prevails, Peruvian bark, or
some tonic medicine might be very benefi-
cially combined with the water ; and from
the use of the same water, along with diure-
tics, good effects might be expected in drop-
sical cases.
THE END.
Edinburgh,
Printed by James Ballantyne and Co.
■ .
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